The invention comprises an apparatus and method for real-time readout of a recreational drone or UAV altitude. The invention includes an airborne sensor/transmitter unit and a ground based receiver/display unit. The airborne unit is removably attached to the flying vehicle and carried aloft. The ground based receiver/display unit is associated with the ground based operator (pilot) of the UAV. The airborne unit comprises an altitude sensor module, an RF transmitter module and a microcontroller/processor system. The ground based receiver/display unit comprises an RF receiver module, a microcontroller/processor system and a display system. UAV altitude sensed by the altitude sensor is transmitted to the ground unit for display in real-time. The invention facilitates the pilot's situational awareness, enhances safe operation and aids in compliance with applicable regulations.