FAA 107 Regulations & Compliance Standards — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of Part 107 regulations?
- To regulate commercial airplane operations.
- To govern satellite launches.
- To provide rules for hobbyist drone flying.
- To provide operational rules for commercial drone pilots (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To provide operational rules for commercial drone pilots
FAA Part 107, officially known as "Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems," establishes the comprehensive set of rules and regulations specifically for operating drones for commercial purposes in the United States. These regulations ensure safety, manage airspace, and define the responsibilities of commercial drone pilots. It distinguishes commercial operations from recreational flying, which has different guidelines.
Question 2: Which authority grants waivers to specific Part 107 rules?
- Department of Homeland Security
- Federal Aviation Administration (Correct answer)
- National Transportation Safety Board
- Department of Transportation
Correct answer: Federal Aviation Administration
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the sole authority responsible for regulating all aspects of civil aviation in the United States, including drone operations. Therefore, only the FAA has the power to grant waivers or authorizations to specific rules outlined in Part 107, allowing for operations that might otherwise be prohibited under certain conditions. This process ensures that any deviations from standard regulations are thoroughly reviewed for safety.
Question 3: What is the maximum allowable altitude for drone flights under Part 107?
- 100 feet AGL
- 200 feet AGL
- 400 feet AGL (Correct answer)
- 500 feet AGL
Correct answer: 400 feet AGL
Under FAA Part 107, commercial drone pilots are generally restricted to a maximum altitude of 400 feet Above Ground Level (AGL). This limit is established to prevent conflicts with manned aircraft, which typically operate at higher altitudes, and to maintain a safe and organized airspace. Operations above 400 feet AGL require specific authorization or a waiver from the FAA.
Question 4: When is a Remote Pilot Certificate required?
- Only for drone flights at night.
- Only for flights over people.
- When flying a drone commercially (Correct answer)
- For hobby flying of drones.
Correct answer: When flying a drone commercially
A Remote Pilot Certificate, also known as a Part 107 license, is a mandatory requirement for anyone operating a drone for non-hobbyist or commercial purposes. This includes activities like aerial photography for real estate, inspections, or any service where compensation is received. Hobbyist flying, however, falls under different regulations and does not require this certificate.
Question 5: What is the minimum age to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate?
- 13 years
- 16 years (Correct answer)
- 18 years
- 21 years
Correct answer: 16 years
To be eligible for a Remote Pilot Certificate under FAA Part 107, an individual must be at least 16 years old. This age requirement ensures that pilots possess a certain level of maturity and cognitive ability to understand and adhere to complex aviation regulations and safety procedures. It aligns with the FAA's standards for responsible operation of unmanned aircraft.
Question 6: How often must a remote pilot recertify their knowledge?
- Every 6 months
- Every 12 months
- Every 24 months
- Every 24 months with recurrent training (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Every 24 months with recurrent training
To maintain a valid Remote Pilot Certificate, pilots must demonstrate recurrent aeronautical knowledge every 24 calendar months. This can be achieved by passing an online recurrent training course provided by the FAA or by taking an initial or recurrent knowledge test at an approved testing center. This ensures pilots stay updated on regulations and best practices, maintaining a high level of safety and proficiency.
Question 7: What is required if an accident involving a drone causes serious injury or damage?
- No reporting is necessary.
- Report within 30 days.
- Report within 10 days (Correct answer)
- Report within 48 hours.
Correct answer: Report within 10 days
Under FAA Part 107, if a drone accident results in serious injury to any person or causes damage to property exceeding $500 (not including the drone itself), the remote pilot in command must report the incident to the FAA within 10 calendar days. This reporting requirement allows the FAA to investigate and understand accident causes, contributing to overall aviation safety.
Question 8: Which document must be accessible during commercial drone operations?
- Pilot’s birth certificate
- Drone insurance policy
- Remote Pilot Certificate (Correct answer)
- UAS manufacturer manual
Correct answer: Remote Pilot Certificate
During any commercial drone operation, the Remote Pilot in Command (PIC) must have their Remote Pilot Certificate readily accessible. This is a fundamental requirement under FAA Part 107, similar to how a driver's license must be carried when operating a vehicle. It serves as proof of qualification and authorization to conduct commercial drone flights.
Question 9: Which FAA regulation governs small UAS operations?
- Part 61
- Part 91
- Part 107 (Correct answer)
- Part 135
Correct answer: Part 107
FAA Part 107 is the specific regulation that governs the operation of small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, for commercial purposes in the United States. It outlines the rules, requirements, and responsibilities for remote pilots and their aircraft. Other FAA parts, like Part 91, primarily cover manned aircraft operations.
FAA 107 Regulations & Compliance Standards
What is the primary purpose of Part 107 regulations?