Yes.

See link for approach plate to Birmingham, AL.

http://155.178.201.160/d-tpp/1504/00050IL6.PDF

The final approach fix is at 2200 MSL, or 1550 ft above the ground at 4.1 nm (4.7 statute miles). The descent begins there, so at 3 to 4 statute miles 1200 AGL is quite a normal altitude.

This is a very normal ILS instrument approach profile so it would apply at many airports. Many smaller airports without instrument approaches have a light system (VASI) that allows/encourages aircraft to fly the same descent profile as an ILS so the same altitude/distances can apply at most any airport.

Many non-precision approaches include a descent earlier than this - arriving at minimum descent altitude (400 to 600 AGL typically) earlier than a continuous descent to the runway as in an ILS so below 1200 AGL at 3 miles is quite common.

We had an issue here (KBHM) recently with a "drone" reported at 3400 MSL five miles from the airport a while back right on the route to intercept the final approach course. While I am a long time modeler - 40 years - I also fly airplanes for a living, I would like to keep doing both.

Something to think about: Pilots don't spend a lot of time deciding how big a rock we can throw at someone without hurting them. Perhaps the discussion about how big a model aircraft can hit us without hurting is a bit out of bounds.

Bryan