FAA Part 107

Definition

FAA Part 107 is a set of regulations established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that governs the operation of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), commonly known as drones, for commercial purposes. This regulation outlines the requirements for drone pilots, including operational limitations, certification processes, and safety standards to ensure safe and responsible drone use in the national airspace.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. FAA Part 107 went into effect on August 29, 2016, establishing the framework for commercial drone operations in the United States.
2. Under Part 107, drone pilots must be at least 16 years old, pass a knowledge test, and obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate to operate drones commercially.
3. Drones must weigh less than 55 pounds to be operated under Part 107 regulations, including any payload.
4. Part 107 restricts operations to daytime hours unless the pilot has obtained a waiver for night operations, ensuring safety and visibility.
5. Drone operators are required to conduct pre-flight inspections to ensure their aircraft are in safe operating condition before each flight.

Review Questions

• What are the key requirements for obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate under FAA Part 107, and why are they important?
  • To obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate under FAA Part 107, applicants must be at least 16 years old, pass an aeronautical knowledge test covering regulations and safety protocols, and undergo a security screening. These requirements are important as they ensure that drone pilots have the necessary understanding of aviation rules and safe operation practices, which ultimately helps promote safety in the national airspace and reduces the risk of accidents.
• Discuss how Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) impacts commercial drone operations under FAA Part 107.
  • Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) is a critical requirement in FAA Part 107 that mandates drone operators maintain direct visual contact with their drone throughout the flight. This regulation is designed to enhance safety by allowing pilots to better detect potential hazards or other aircraft in the vicinity. As a result, VLOS limits certain types of operations and encourages operators to develop skills that improve situational awareness and decision-making during flights.
• Evaluate the implications of FAA Part 107 on the growth of the commercial drone industry and potential future developments.
  • FAA Part 107 has significantly impacted the growth of the commercial drone industry by providing a clear regulatory framework that ensures safety while allowing innovation. This has led to increased investment in drone technology and diverse applications across industries such as agriculture, construction, and delivery services. Looking ahead, as technology advances and safety measures evolve, we may see modifications to Part 107 regulations or additional waivers granted for operations like flying beyond visual line of sight or using drones in more complex environments, further expanding the industry's capabilities.

Related terms

Remote Pilot Certificate: A certification required by the FAA for individuals who wish to operate drones commercially under Part 107, demonstrating their knowledge of aviation regulations and safe flying practices.

Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): A requirement under FAA Part 107 that mandates drone operators maintain visual contact with their drone during flight, ensuring they can see and avoid obstacles or other aircraft.

Waiver: A request that drone operators can submit to the FAA to obtain permission for operations that deviate from standard Part 107 regulations, such as flying at night or beyond visual line of sight.