What is a defining characteristic of a drone?

A defining characteristic of a drone is that it is controlled from the ground. Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), operate without an onboard pilot. Instead, they are commanded remotely, which allows for various applications ranging from aerial photography to surveying, search and rescue operations, and even delivery services.

This ground control capability differentiates drones from manned aircraft, where a pilot is physically present within the vehicle. Other options presented do not accurately describe the essential characteristics of a drone. For instance, while some drones may be painted in bright colors, this is not a defining characteristic and can vary widely based on design preferences. Also, drones can access a wide range of altitudes; they are not limited to flying at very low altitudes. Furthermore, the presence of a pilot is what distinguishes a manned aircraft from a drone, reinforcing that the essence of a drone is its unmanned, remotely controlled operation.