Hi there Em, and welcome to planDisney!
Being a FAA-certificated drone pilot means always being aware of where and when you shouldn't fly, so it's great that you're checking to make sure before you set off and explore from the skies. As a recreational UAV owner myself who loves safely capturing footage from above thanks to my trusty drone,
Tinkerbell 3 - I've definitely thought in the past about how magnificent it would be to fly around Cinderella Castle.
Unfortunately this is both not permitted neither under
Walt Disney World Property Rules that specifically list drones, nor according to the Federal Aviation Administration which has issued NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) Number : FDC 4/3634 that permanently restricts the airspace above Walt Disney World Resort, currently within a radius of three nautical miles. As you may know, the entirety of this private property extends not only to include the theme parks, but also the
Disney Resort Hotels as well as locations like
Disney Springs. Though having a drone weighing under 250 grams or 55 pounds currently does not require UAS Aircraft Registration through the Federal Aviation Administration, it is still subject to these restrictions that are very strictly enforced; I've observed that security Cast Members diligently remove drones and their operators both on land and especially on Disney Cruise Line where signage is posted very visibly on
Disney Castaway Cay.
With these restrictions in mind, it'll be interesting to see whether in the future anything changes or allows for something similar to the
drone shows found at Disney Destinations around the world like the
Disney Electrical Sky Parade at Disneyland Paris. In the meantime, it's best to set your sights for future drone flights in areas away from Walt Disney World Resort property and stick to
Soarin' Around the World while you're visiting!
Here's to safely flying the skies above!
Prince