B737-800
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Total 9500
Conflict NMAC; Inflight Event / Encounter Other / Unknown
On HRPER1 Departure from 18L; Regional Departure gave us a turn towards the west prior to reaching BPARK. As we were heading approximately 240 degrees through the turn and passing about 4000 to 4500 feet MSL (approximate position NNE of YAMEL); I saw something below us that made me do a double-take. At first I thought it might be a small helium balloon that had been released but then realized it was remote-controlled quadcopter-style helicopter drone! Based on what I know about the size of them; I estimate it was within 300 to 500 feet of our flight path. I saw it first at our 2 o'clock low position and it passed slightly off to our right wing and below us. I reported it immediately to Departure and then informed the Captain; who was flying the airplane by hand. He never saw it and it happened much too quickly for me to point it out to him. Based on my observations; the drone would have been flying at a minimum of 3500 feet MSL and possibly over 4000 feet MSL; well in excess of what I believe is the authorized altitudes . A mid-air collision with a drone could cause substantial damage or an engine failure to a commercial aircraft. The small size of these drones makes them particularly hazardous. In my opinion; they could be comparable to the threat from a large bird strike; only potentially much; much serious. Not only are they not equipped with transponders but by the time a pilot acquires them visually it is likely too late to take evasive action. And I imagine the impact from one would be much worse than that with a bird based on the materials used in their construction.The threat to commercial operations from recreational drones must continue to be addressed by the Federal Aviation Administration; not only with changes in regulatory requirements but in vigorous enforcement action against violators. Historically; the community of hobbyists who operated Radio-Controlled airplanes acted responsibly in staying clear of unauthorized airspace. In recent years; as drones have become much more popular; inexpensive; and easy to operate; it appears that more people who are either unaware of the rules or irresponsible to the privileges of operating RC aircraft have taken up the hobby. When I searched online; I found some for under $100! And their performance capabilities have improved in recent years so as to make them more of a threat to the operating environment of FAA-regulated airspace. 'Recreational use of airspace by model aircraft is covered by FAA Advisory Circular 91-57; which generally limits operations to below 400 feet above ground level and away from airports and air traffic.' (http://www.faa.gov/news/fact_sheets/news_story.cfm?newsId=14153) Yet; I don't believe there are any training; registration; or certification requirements for someone to purchase and operate these model aircraft. Currently; operators of larger drones for commercial or governmental purposes may register with the FAA to operate in excess of 400 feet; but my concern is that the general public will continue to do so without detection or enforcement action unless the FAA takes a much more firm approach.
A B737-NG First Officer reported sighting a UAV within 400 FT of their flight path as they climbed through 4;000-4;500 MSL south and west of DFW on the HRPER1 SID.