Review Introduction
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has adopted specific rules to allow the operation of civil small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) in the National Airspace System (NAS) for purposes other than recreational use. The rules are specified in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 107, Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems. 14 CFR part 107 addresses sUAS classification, certification, and operating rules.
Remote Pilot in Command Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a part 107 remote pilot certificate with an sUAS rating, you must be at least 16 years old; able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language (FAA may make exceptions for medical reasons); and in a physical and mental condition that would not interfere with the safe operation of an sUAS.
Training and Testing Requirements
Applicants for a part 107 remote pilot certificate with an sUAS rating must meet the requirements below in order to gain and retain the knowledge necessary to safely operate an sUAS in the NAS.
Within the previous 24 calendar months, you must have completed one of the following:
- The FAA Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) Knowledge Test at a Knowledge Testing Center (KTC),
- This initial online training, or
- One of the separate recurrent online training courses:
- For part 61 pilot certificate holders with a current flight review (per 14 CFR § 61.56)
- Non-part 61 pilot certificate holders (or those without a current flight review)
Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) Characteristics
Small unmanned aircraft:
- Weigh less than 55 pounds, including everything that is onboard or otherwise attached to the aircraft.
- Are operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.
A small unmanned aircraft system includes the unmanned aircraft itself and its associated elements that are required for safe operation, such as communication links and components that control the aircraft.
Exclusions
14 CFR part 107 does not apply to limited recreational operations of UAS that occur in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44809, amateur rockets, moored balloons or unmanned free balloons, kites, operations conducted outside the United States, public aircraft operations, and air carrier operations.
Registration Requirements
Owners must register sUAS with the FAA prior to operating in the NAS if operating under part 107. If the owner is less than 13 years of age, then the small unmanned aircraft must be registered by a person who is at least 13 years of age.
Obtain a Foreign Aircraft Permit before conducting any operation that involves a civil aircraft that is registered in a foreign country or owned, controlled, or operated by someone who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Note: Operations over people involving foreign-owned UAS have additional requirements. For more information, review AC 107-2, Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) (as amended), Chapter 5.
Marking Requirements
Before operation, mark the sUAS to identify that it is registered with the FAA. The registration marking must be a unique identifier number, legible and durable, and visible on an external surface of the aircraft.
Crew Resource Management
An sUAS operation may involve one individual or a team of crewmembers:
- The Remote Pilot in Command (Remote PIC) holds a current remote pilot certificate with an sUAS rating and has the final authority and responsibility for the operation and safety of the sUAS
- A person manipulating the controls operates the sUAS under direct supervision of the Remote PIC
- A visual observer designated by the Remote PIC acts as a flight crewmember to help see and avoid air traffic or other objects in the sky, overhead, or on the ground
Many techniques from manned aircraft operations apply to the operation of unmanned aircraft. Examples include situational awareness, risk-based aeronautical decision making, and crew resource management.
Maintenance and Inspection
Follow all manufacturer recommendations for scheduled and unscheduled overhaul, repair, inspection, modification, replacement, and system software upgrades for the unmanned aircraft itself and all components necessary for flight.
Before beginning any sUAS flight operation, inspect the sUAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe operation.
Operating Rules
The Remote PIC must ensure that the sUAS operation complies with all operational requirements and limitations described in 14 CFR part 107. All crewmembers must comply with part 107 requirements by operating at appropriate times, in approved locations, and in a manner that protects the safety of the persons, property, and the NAS.
Certificates of Waiver
If the operation cannot be conducted within the regulatory structure of part 107, the Remote PIC is responsible for submitting an application for a Certificate of Waiver and proposing a safe alternative. Only certain provisions of part 107 are waivable. FAA will determine if the proposed operation can be safely conducted under the terms of that Certificate of Waiver.
Abnormal and Emergency Situations
Follow any manufacturer guidance for appropriate response procedures in abnormal or emergency situations. In case of an in-flight emergency, the Remote PIC is permitted to deviate from any rule of part 107 to the extent necessary to meet that emergency. FAA may request a written report explaining the deviation.
Accident Reporting
Report any sUAS accident to the FAA, within 10 days of the operation, if any of the following thresholds are met:
- Serious injury to any person or any loss of consciousness
- Damage to any property, other than the small unmanned aircraft, if the cost is greater than $500 to repair or replace the property (whichever is lower)
-
In addition to this FAA report, and in accordance with the criteria established by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), certain sUAS accidents must also be reported to the NTSB immediately. See 49 CFR Part 830 for required reporting criteria.
If the exam button is not blue, you may be Previewing the course and not enrolled. If you are enrolled in the course, click the blue exam button and complete the exam. If you are Previewing the course and would like to complete the exam and get credit for the course, click the link below.
https://www.faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/course_content.aspx?enrolled=true&cID=451