Flight instructor reported an NMAC with a UAS in the traffic pattern.

Date: 2026-03 · Aircraft: PA-28 Cherokee/Archer/Dakota/Pillan/Warrior · Phase: climb

Anomalies: Airspace violation all typesConflict near mid-air collision (NMAC)Deviation discrepancy procedural FARDeviation discrepancy procedural unauthorized flight operations uasDeviation discrepancy procedural published material policy

Synopsis

Flight instructor reported an NMAC with a UAS in the traffic pattern.

Narrative

On Day 0; CFI/CFII/MEI Person A was flying with a Commercial Pilot working on CFI rating. We were practicing takeoffs and landings. At about XA:13 CFI Person A observed a drone flying below south of the airport at about 500 feet AGL in the traffic pattern. No evasive action was required to avoid the drone. CFI Person A reported the sighting to Tower ATC. Tower processed the reported sighting as per their protocols.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.