FAA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield FAA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Under Part 107.39, operations over human beings not directly involved in the operation are generally prohibited EXCEPT in which category? → Category 1: drone weighing 0.55 lbs or less with no exposed rotating parts
2. Which of the following is a waiviable provision under Part 107? → The prohibition on operating at night
3. Which condition would cause the altimeter to indicate a lower altitude than actually flown (true altitude)? → Air temperature warmer than standard
4. When are the four forces that act on an airplane in equilibrium? → During unaccelerated flight.
5. 10. What are the minimum requirements for airplane operations under special VFR in Class D airspace at night? → The pilot must be instrument rated, and the airplane must be IFR equipped.
6. When flying a back course localizer approach without a course deviation correction feature, the CDI exhibits what behavior? → Reverse sensing
7. When is a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) issued for a TFR over a stadium during a sporting event? → Typically the day before or the day of the event
8. (Refer to Figure 24). Determine the magnetic course from Airpark East Airport (area 1) to Winnsboro Airport (area 2). Magnetic variation is 6°30'E. → 075°.
9. What is the purpose of the Maltese cross symbol on an instrument approach chart profile view? → It marks the final approach fix for a nonprecision approach
10. Who holds final authority and responsibility when a visual observer is used? → The remote pilot in command
11. Why is frost considered hazardous to flight? → Frost spoils the smooth flow of air over the wings, thereby decreasing lifting capability.
12. When is a drone pilot most at risk from 'whiteout' conditions? → Flying over snow-covered terrain with overcast skies that eliminate depth perception
13. A NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) is primarily used to: → Notify pilots of temporary changes or hazards that may affect flight safety
14. The 'Invulnerability' hazardous attitude in a remote pilot would be BEST described as: → Believing accidents only happen to other, less skilled pilots
15. Why should drone pilots maintain visual line of sight (VLOS)? → To ensure situational awareness and safety
16. Which instrument provides the most pertinent information for pitch control in straight and level flight? → Altimeter
17. When warm, moist, stable air flows upslope, it → produces stratus type clouds.
18. A military air station can be identified by a rotating beacon that emits → two quick, white flashes between green flashes.
19. (Refer to Figure 19.) How are Significant Weather Prognostic Charts best used by a pilot? → For determining areas to avoid (freezing levels and turbulence).
20. When cleared to 'cross ABC intersection at or above 5,000', what is the lowest altitude the pilot may cross ABC? → 5,000 feet
21. A remote PIC holds a Part 107 certificate and wishes to operate in Class G airspace below 400 feet AGL at night with anti-collision lighting. What is required? → No additional authorization — it is permitted under current rules
22. Which types of airspace are depicted on the En Route Low Altitude Chart? → Limits of f controlled airspace, military routes and special use airspace
23. Except in Alaska, during what time period should lighted position lights be displayed on an aircraft? → Sunset to sunrise.
24. What feature is normally associated with the cumulus stage of a thunderstorm? → Continuous updraft.
25. (Refer to Figure 20, area 1.) What minimum radio equipment is required to land and take off at Norfolk International? → Mode C transponder and two-way radio.
26. What does a Sectional Chart provide for drone pilots? → Details about terrain and airspace
27. During an unusual attitude recovery from a nose-high, low-airspeed condition on instruments, the pilot should first do what? → Add power, lower the nose, and level the wings
28. Which procedure is recommended to ensure that the emergency locator transmitter (ELT) has not been activated? → Monitor 121.5 before engine shutdown.
29. In weight and balance calculations, arm is → the distance from the datum line to the item.
30. Which condition most affects barometric pressure sensors in drones? → Sudden weather changes