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DRTS Instructor Theory study materials
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DRTS Instructor Theory practice questions

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Question 1UAS Regulations and Airspace

Under the standard small UAS rule framework used in the United States, what is the maximum allowable ground speed for a small unmanned aircraft operating under Part 107?

  1. 120 knots (138 mph)
  2. 50 knots (58 mph)
  3. 87 knots (100 mph) Correct answer.
  4. 100 knots (115 mph)

Explanation

The small UAS operating rules cap ground speed at 87 knots, which equals roughly 100 miles per hour. This limit applies regardless of wind, so the remote pilot must plan the mission to stay within it. Exceeding the limit requires a waiver or a different operating authority.

Question 2UAS Regulations and Airspace

What is the regulatory maximum altitude above ground level for routine small UAS operations conducted under Part 107 without a waiver?

  1. 400 feet AGL Correct answer.
  2. 1,200 feet AGL
  3. 200 feet AGL
  4. 500 feet AGL

Explanation

Routine small UAS flights are limited to 400 feet above ground level. The aircraft may fly higher only when it remains within 400 feet of a structure and does not exceed the structure's uppermost limit. Operations above that ceiling require a waiver or a different regulatory path.

Question 3UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot wants to fly a small UAS at night. Under Part 107 as amended, which combination of conditions must be met?

  1. Anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles plus completion of a knowledge test or training on night operations Correct answer.
  2. A second visual observer stationed at the control station plus a filed flight plan
  3. Daylight-only operations remain mandatory, so night flight is never permitted
  4. Prior air traffic control authorization for every flight plus a strobe on the tail only

Explanation

Night operations require anti-collision lighting that is visible for at least three statute miles from the control station. The remote pilot in command must also have completed updated knowledge testing or recurrent training covering night operations. Both elements must be satisfied before launching.

Question 4UAS Regulations and Airspace

What is the minimum age to obtain a remote pilot certificate with a small UAS rating?

  1. 16 years Correct answer.
  2. 21 years
  3. 14 years
  4. 18 years

Explanation

An applicant must be at least 16 years old to earn a remote pilot certificate with a small UAS rating. There is no upper age limit, but the applicant must also meet medical and testing requirements. Younger individuals may fly only under the recreational exception or with a certificated pilot supervising.

Question 5UAS Regulations and Airspace

Which of the following best describes Class G airspace in the United States?

  1. Airspace designated for military operations only
  2. Controlled airspace surrounding large hub airports
  3. Airspace above 18,000 feet mean sea level
  4. Uncontrolled airspace where ATC clearance is generally not required Correct answer.

Explanation

Class G is uncontrolled airspace, meaning air traffic control does not provide separation services there. In most of Class G below 400 feet AGL, small UAS operations do not need an ATC authorization. The remote pilot still must see and avoid other aircraft and comply with all operating rules.

Question 6UAS Regulations and Airspace

Before operating in Class B airspace, what must a remote pilot obtain?

  1. A state-issued drone registration sticker
  2. An air traffic control authorization such as a Part 107 waiver or airspace authorization Correct answer.
  3. Nothing, because Class B is open to all unmanned aircraft
  4. A written letter from the nearest flight school

Explanation

Class B airspace is controlled, and small UAS operations there require prior ATC authorization. This is typically obtained through the FAA's online airspace authorization process or a waiver. Flying without that authorization violates the operating rules.

Question 7UAS Regulations and Airspace

What does a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) generally require of a small UAS operator?

  1. The operator may fly inside only during daylight hours
  2. The operator must notify local police but may proceed
  3. The operator must remain outside the restricted area unless specifically authorized Correct answer.
  4. The operator may fly inside if the aircraft weighs under 0.55 pounds

Explanation

A TFR closes a defined volume of airspace to most flight operations, including unmanned aircraft. Unless the operator holds specific authorization from the issuing authority, the flight must stay clear of the area. Violating a TFR can result in enforcement action and significant civil penalties.

Question 8UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is flying recreationally and wants to operate within five miles of an airport with a control tower. What is the correct action?

  1. Fly only above 400 feet to stay clear of traffic
  2. Obtain a Part 107 waiver before every flight
  3. Fly without any notification because recreational flights are exempt
  4. Notify the airport operator and air traffic control before flying, per the applicable exception Correct answer.

Explanation

Recreational operations near towered airports require advance notification to both the airport operator and air traffic control. This allows the tower to advise the pilot of traffic and local procedures. Flying higher to avoid traffic is not a valid substitute for notification.

Question 9UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot plans a flight that will cross into Class D airspace surrounding a towered airport. What is the most appropriate pre-flight action?

  1. Request and obtain an airspace authorization through the FAA's designated online system before the flight Correct answer.
  2. Assume Class D is uncontrolled below 400 feet and launch immediately
  3. File a VFR flight plan with the local flight service station
  4. Call the tower by telephone during the flight to announce the drone's position

Explanation

Class D is controlled airspace, so a small UAS operator needs prior authorization to enter it. The FAA provides an online system for requesting this authorization, and approval should be in hand before launch. Announcing position mid-flight does not substitute for authorization.

Question 10UAS Regulations and Airspace

A small UAS is being flown at 300 feet AGL when the remote pilot spots a manned helicopter approaching. What is the remote pilot's primary responsibility?

  1. Maintain course because the drone has already established its position
  2. Climb to 400 feet to increase separation from the helicopter
  3. Yield the right of way and maneuver clear of the manned aircraft Correct answer.
  4. Contact the helicopter on the local unicom frequency to negotiate passage

Explanation

The remote pilot in command must give way to all manned aircraft, which always have the right of way. The appropriate response is to maneuver the drone clear, typically by descending and moving away. Attempting to negotiate or hold course creates unacceptable collision risk.

Question 11UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot will fly a 55-pound small UAS for an agricultural survey. Which statement about registration and operating rules is correct?

  1. The flight must occur only in Class G airspace regardless of authorization
  2. The aircraft must be registered, and Part 107 operating limits such as the 55-pound threshold apply Correct answer.
  3. Registration is optional because agricultural flights are exempt
  4. The aircraft may exceed 55 pounds without any additional approval

Explanation

Small UAS weighing 55 pounds or less fall under Part 107, and any aircraft operated under that rule must be registered. The 55-pound figure is the upper bound of the small UAS category. Operations above that weight require a different approval path.

Question 12UAS Regulations and Airspace

What is the standard visual line of sight requirement for small UAS operations under Part 107?

  1. The pilot may rely on first-person view goggles as the sole means of seeing the aircraft
  2. The remote pilot or a visual observer must maintain unaided visual contact with the aircraft at all times Correct answer.
  3. A spotter may track the aircraft using binoculars as the primary means
  4. Line of sight is required only during takeoff and landing

Explanation

The aircraft must remain within unaided visual line of sight of the remote pilot in command or a visual observer in communication with the pilot. Corrective lenses are permitted, but binoculars, goggles, or other aids cannot serve as the primary means of maintaining sight. This requirement supports see-and-avoid responsibilities.

Question 13UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot wants to operate a small UAS from a moving vehicle in a sparsely populated area. Under Part 107, this is permitted only when:

  1. A visual observer rides in a separate chase vehicle
  2. The vehicle remains below 10 mph at all times
  3. The operation occurs over sparsely populated areas and the aircraft is not used to carry property for compensation Correct answer.
  4. The flight stays within 100 feet of the vehicle

Explanation

Operating from a moving vehicle is allowed only over sparsely populated areas and only when the aircraft is not carrying property for compensation or hire. These two conditions limit risk in areas where bystanders are unlikely. Operations in populated areas from moving vehicles are not permitted.

Question 14UAS Regulations and Airspace

Which of the following operations would require a Part 107 waiver rather than a standard airspace authorization?

  1. Conducting a training flight at 350 feet AGL in Class G airspace
  2. Delivering a package to a customer for payment while flying beyond visual line of sight Correct answer.
  3. Flying at 200 feet AGL in Class G airspace
  4. Taking aerial photographs of a farm for the owner

Explanation

Carrying property for compensation and operating beyond visual line of sight are both regulated limits that require a waiver. A standard airspace authorization addresses entry into controlled airspace, not these operational restrictions. The other listed flights fall within normal Part 107 limits.

Question 15UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is preparing to fly in an area where a stadium will host a major sporting event. What restriction most likely applies?

  1. A temporary flight restriction that prohibits UAS flight during the event Correct answer.
  2. An automatic waiver allowing flight below 100 feet
  3. A permanent prohibition on all flights within 50 miles
  4. A requirement to fly only after the event concludes, with no other limits

Explanation

Large sporting events often trigger temporary flight restrictions that bar unmanned aircraft from the area for the event's duration. The remote pilot should check notices to airmen and the FAA's TFR listings before flight. Flying in a TFR without authorization is a violation.

Question 16UAS Regulations and Airspace

What is the purpose of a Mode C veil around a Class B airport?

  1. It designates airspace where only gliders may fly
  2. It requires transponder-equipped aircraft to have an operating Mode C transponder within the veil Correct answer.
  3. It establishes a mandatory radio frequency for all aircraft
  4. It prohibits all unmanned aircraft from operating within 30 miles

Explanation

The Mode C veil is a ring, typically 30 nautical miles in radius, around certain Class B airports where aircraft must carry an operating Mode C transponder. Small UAS operators should be aware of this because it signals dense, controlled traffic. Operating within the veil may require additional coordination depending on the aircraft and operation.

Question 17UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is asked to fly a small UAS in Class C airspace around a busy regional airport. Which statement is correct?

  1. Authorization is required, and the pilot should request it through the FAA's designated process before flight Correct answer.
  2. Class C airspace is uncontrolled, so no authorization is needed
  3. Authorization is required only if the drone weighs more than 25 pounds
  4. The pilot may enter if a visual observer is present

Explanation

Class C is controlled airspace, and small UAS entry requires prior authorization obtained through the FAA's designated system. The requirement applies regardless of aircraft weight within the small UAS category. Having a visual observer does not substitute for airspace authorization.

Question 18UAS Regulations and Airspace

Which document should a remote pilot consult to identify active special use airspace such as restricted areas and military operations areas before a flight?

  1. The local chamber of commerce website
  2. A current aeronautical chart and notices to airmen Correct answer.
  3. The aircraft registration certificate
  4. The drone manufacturer's user manual

Explanation

Aeronautical charts depict special use airspace boundaries, and notices to airmen provide current status and activation times. Together they give the remote pilot the information needed to plan around restricted areas and military operations areas. Manufacturer manuals and registration documents contain no airspace status information.

Question 19UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is operating under Part 107 and a person not directly participating in the operation walks into the area beneath the flight path. What must the pilot do?

  1. Ask the person to sign a liability waiver before continuing
  2. Ensure the aircraft does not operate directly over the person unless that person is under a covered structure or in a vehicle Correct answer.
  3. Land immediately and terminate the operation for the day
  4. Continue the flight because Part 107 has no restriction on flight over people

Explanation

The operating rules restrict sustained flight directly over people who are not participating in the operation. Exceptions exist when the person is inside a covered structure or a moving vehicle that provides protection. The pilot must plan the flight path to respect these limits.

Question 20UAS Regulations and Airspace

What is the maximum permissible weight for a small unmanned aircraft under Part 107, including everything attached or carried?

  1. 25 pounds
  2. 44 pounds
  3. 100 pounds
  4. 55 pounds Correct answer.

Explanation

The small UAS category covers aircraft weighing less than 55 pounds at takeoff, including any attached equipment or payload. This figure is a defining threshold for the rule's applicability. Aircraft exceeding it fall outside Part 107 and need another approval path.

Question 21UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is flying a small UAS in Class G airspace at 350 feet AGL when the aircraft drifts toward the boundary of Class E airspace that begins at 700 feet AGL. What is the key consideration?

  1. The pilot must land immediately upon reaching 400 feet AGL
  2. The pilot may climb if a visual observer confirms no traffic
  3. The pilot may climb into Class E without authorization because the aircraft is small
  4. The pilot must remain below the floor of the overlying controlled airspace unless authorized to enter it Correct answer.

Explanation

Controlled airspace begins at the published floor, and entry requires authorization regardless of aircraft size. The remote pilot must keep the aircraft below that boundary during the flight. A visual observer's traffic report does not authorize entry into controlled airspace.

Question 22UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot intends to conduct a flight that will require an altitude of 700 feet AGL to inspect a tall tower. Which approach is most consistent with the regulations?

  1. Fly at 700 feet if the tower owner grants written permission
  2. Fly at 700 feet because structures are exempt from altitude limits
  3. Fly within 400 feet of the structure and remain within its uppermost limit, or obtain a waiver Correct answer.
  4. Fly at 700 feet only if the flight lasts less than 10 minutes

Explanation

The structure exception allows flight above 400 feet AGL only while the aircraft remains within 400 feet of the structure and does not exceed its uppermost limit. If the planned altitude does not fit that envelope, a waiver is required. Owner permission alone does not override the altitude rule.

Question 23UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is operating near a non-towered airport and hears a manned aircraft announce a downwind leg on the common traffic advisory frequency. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Continue the planned flight because the airport has no control tower
  2. Land only after the manned aircraft has departed the area
  3. Give way to the manned aircraft and adjust the UAS flight path to remain clear of the traffic pattern Correct answer.
  4. Climb above the traffic pattern altitude to avoid the aircraft

Explanation

Manned aircraft always have the right of way, even at non-towered airports. The remote pilot should use the advisory information to keep the UAS clear of the traffic pattern. The absence of a control tower does not reduce the see-and-avoid obligation.

Question 24UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot holds a Part 107 certificate and is asked to fly a 60-pound unmanned aircraft for a survey. What is the correct regulatory conclusion?

  1. The flight is allowed if it stays below 400 feet AGL
  2. The aircraft exceeds the small UAS weight limit and cannot be operated under Part 107 without separate authorization Correct answer.
  3. The flight is allowed because Part 107 has no weight limit
  4. The flight is allowed if the pilot holds a visual observer

Explanation

Part 107 applies only to aircraft under 55 pounds, so a 60-pound aircraft falls outside the rule's scope. Operating it requires a different approval path, such as a special airworthiness certificate or exemption. Altitude and observer considerations do not change the weight-based applicability.

Question 25UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot plans a flight in controlled airspace and receives an airspace authorization that expires at 1400 local time. The flight begins at 1350 and is scheduled to last 25 minutes. What is the correct course of action?

  1. Continue flying until the mission is complete because the flight began before expiration
  2. Request an extension from the tower during the flight
  3. Ignore the expiration because authorizations are advisory
  4. Adjust the plan so the aircraft is on the ground before the authorization expires Correct answer.

Explanation

An airspace authorization is valid only within its stated window, so the entire operation must finish before it expires. The pilot should shorten or reschedule the flight to remain compliant. Beginning before expiration does not extend the authorization.

Question 26UAS Regulations and Airspace

Under Part 107, what is the maximum groundspeed permitted for a small unmanned aircraft during normal operations?

  1. 87 knots Correct answer.
  2. 100 knots
  3. 120 knots
  4. 150 knots

Explanation

Part 107 limits small UAS operations to a maximum groundspeed of 87 knots, which is approximately 100 mph. This limit applies regardless of altitude or airspace class unless a specific waiver has been granted. Remote pilots must plan flight profiles that keep the aircraft within this speed cap.

Question 27UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is operating a small UAS at night under Part 107. Which requirement applies to the aircraft's lighting?

  1. Anti-collision lights must be visible for at least three statute miles Correct answer.
  2. A steady red beacon is required on the airframe
  3. Landing lights must illuminate the ground below
  4. Only a handheld flashlight is needed

Explanation

Night operations under Part 107 require anti-collision lighting on the small unmanned aircraft that is visible for at least three statute miles. The lighting helps other aircraft see the UAS, though the remote pilot must still maintain visual line of sight. The lights may be reduced only when the remote pilot determines it is in the interest of safety.

Question 28UAS Regulations and Airspace

Which of the following best describes Class G airspace?

  1. Airspace reserved exclusively for military operations
  2. Airspace surrounding the busiest international airports
  3. Controlled airspace requiring prior ATC approval
  4. Uncontrolled airspace where Part 107 flights may generally operate without authorization Correct answer.

Explanation

Class G is uncontrolled airspace, meaning no air traffic control clearance or authorization is required to operate there. Part 107 flights may generally operate in Class G without an airspace authorization, subject to other rules. Pilots still must see and avoid manned aircraft and comply with all other operating limitations.

Question 29UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot wants to operate a small UAS in Class E airspace that begins at the surface around a non-towered airport. What must the pilot do before flight?

  1. Nothing, because Class E is uncontrolled airspace
  2. File a VFR flight plan with the local flight service station
  3. Obtain prior authorization from air traffic control through the FAA's online system Correct answer.
  4. Notify the airport manager by telephone only

Explanation

Class E airspace that extends to the surface is controlled airspace, so Part 107 operations there require prior ATC authorization obtained through the FAA's designated online process. Operating without that authorization violates the airspace rules even though the airport has no operating control tower. Remote pilots should check charts carefully because surface-area Class E can be easy to overlook.

Question 30UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot receives a Certificate of Waiver for a specific operation. How does the waiver affect the pilot's other operations?

  1. It applies only to the specific conditions and provisions stated in the waiver Correct answer.
  2. It transfers to any other remote pilot flying the same aircraft
  3. It automatically covers any location within the same state
  4. It permanently removes all Part 107 operating limits for that pilot

Explanation

A waiver authorizes deviation only from the specific regulations and under the conditions listed on the certificate. Operations outside those stated conditions remain subject to the standard Part 107 rules. The remote pilot must keep the waiver documentation available and comply with every provision it contains.

Question 31UAS Regulations and Airspace

What is the standard maximum altitude above ground level for small UAS operations under Part 107 when flying near a structure?

  1. 400 feet AGL, or 400 feet above a structure's uppermost limit if flown within a 400-foot radius of it Correct answer.
  2. 500 feet AGL everywhere
  3. 400 feet AGL with no exceptions for structures
  4. 1,200 feet AGL within airport traffic areas

Explanation

The default ceiling is 400 feet AGL, but a UAS may fly higher when it is within a 400-foot radius of a structure and does not exceed 400 feet above that structure's uppermost limit. This allows inspection of towers and buildings without a waiver. The exception is tied to the structure's height, not to a fixed absolute altitude.

Question 32UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is flying in Class G airspace and a crew member spots a restricted area boundary ahead on the chart. What should the pilot do?

  1. Enter after broadcasting position on the common traffic frequency
  2. Stay clear of the restricted area unless its controlling agency has authorized entry Correct answer.
  3. Enter the restricted area because Class G airspace is uncontrolled
  4. Enter only if the flight stays below 100 feet AGL

Explanation

Restricted areas contain hazards such as artillery firing or guided missiles, and flight is not permitted unless the using or controlling agency authorizes it. The surrounding Class G status does not override the restriction. Remote pilots should plan routes that avoid these boundaries and confirm status when in doubt.

Question 33UAS Regulations and Airspace

Which of the following is required to register a small unmanned aircraft under Part 107?

  1. The aircraft must be registered only if it weighs more than 55 pounds
  2. Registration is handled by the local airport authority
  3. Registration is optional for recreational flights but mandatory for commercial flights
  4. The aircraft must be registered with the FAA and the registration number displayed on the aircraft Correct answer.

Explanation

Small unmanned aircraft operated under Part 107 must be registered with the FAA, and the registration number must be marked on the aircraft. Registration is done through the FAA's online system and must be renewed as required. Operating an unregistered aircraft is a violation of the regulations.

Question 34UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is asked to fly a small UAS over people who are not directly participating in the operation. Which statement reflects the general Part 107 rule?

  1. Operations over people are allowed if the pilot maintains visual line of sight
  2. Operations over people are always permitted if the UAS weighs less than 0.55 pounds
  3. Operations over people require only verbal consent from each person
  4. Operations over people generally require compliance with specific category requirements or a waiver Correct answer.

Explanation

Flying over people who are not directly participating generally requires meeting the applicable operating category requirements or holding an appropriate waiver. The rules address injury risk based on aircraft weight and design features. Simply keeping the aircraft in sight does not satisfy those requirements.

Question 35UAS Regulations and Airspace

What does a remote pilot need to do before operating a small UAS in Class B airspace?

  1. Obtain an airspace authorization from the FAA before the flight Correct answer.
  2. Submit a flight plan to the local flight service station
  3. Contact the tower by radio during the flight
  4. Notify the nearest military installation

Explanation

Class B airspace is controlled airspace and requires prior authorization obtained through the FAA's designated process. The authorization must be in hand before the flight begins, not requested in flight. Operating in Class B without it violates the airspace regulations.

Question 36UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is operating under Part 107 and the aircraft loses its link to the control station. What is the most appropriate description of the required behavior?

  1. The remote pilot should immediately leave the area and return later
  2. The aircraft should be programmed to execute a predetermined lost-link procedure that avoids hazards Correct answer.
  3. The aircraft should climb to the maximum altitude and circle indefinitely
  4. The aircraft should descend straight down regardless of what is below

Explanation

Part 107 requires that the small UAS have a lost-link procedure that is predictable and safe, such as returning to a preset point or hovering. The procedure must account for people, structures, and other aircraft below. A well-designed procedure prevents the aircraft from drifting into unsafe airspace.

Question 37UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot plans a flight in Class D airspace and receives an authorization that limits operations to a specific time window. What should the pilot do if the flight runs past that window?

  1. Request an extension from the tower while airborne
  2. Land or exit the controlled airspace before the authorization expires Correct answer.
  3. Continue flying because the authorization renews automatically
  4. Broadcast a position report and continue the flight

Explanation

An airspace authorization is valid only within the terms and time stated on it. Once it expires, the pilot is no longer authorized to operate in that controlled airspace. The safe and compliant course is to land or leave the affected airspace before expiration.

Question 38UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is planning a flight near a military operating area and wants to check whether any special use airspace is active. Which source is most appropriate?

  1. The manufacturer's user manual
  2. A weather forecast for the region
  3. A social media group for local drone enthusiasts
  4. A current aeronautical chart supplemented by FAA notices and official sources Correct answer.

Explanation

Aeronautical charts depict special use airspace, and FAA notices and official sources provide status information such as active times. Together they give the pilot the information needed to plan around restricted or hazardous areas. Relying on unofficial sources can lead to inadvertent violations.

Question 39UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot is operating in Class G airspace at 300 feet AGL when a manned aircraft enters the area. What is the remote pilot's primary responsibility?

  1. Contact the manned aircraft on the radio to request priority
  2. Maintain the current course and altitude because the UAS was there first
  3. Climb immediately to 400 feet to increase separation
  4. See and avoid the manned aircraft and give it the right of way Correct answer.

Explanation

Remote pilots must see and avoid other aircraft and may not create a collision hazard, and manned aircraft have the right of way. The UAS operator should maneuver away from the manned aircraft's path as early as possible. Altitude changes should be made with awareness of other traffic and obstacles.

Question 40UAS Regulations and Airspace

A remote pilot plans to operate a small UAS at 250 feet AGL during civil twilight, about 25 minutes after sunset. Under Part 107, which requirement applies to this operation?

  1. No additional requirement applies because civil twilight counts as daylight for small UAS operations
  2. The remote pilot must obtain an airspace authorization from the FAA before flying at any time after sunset
  3. The remote pilot needs only a flashlight to see the aircraft, since anti-collision lighting is optional below 400 feet
  4. The remote pilot must complete a current knowledge test on night operations and the aircraft must have lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles Correct answer.

Explanation

Part 107 permits operations during civil twilight only if the remote pilot has completed a knowledge test covering night operations, and small UAS operations at night require anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles. Civil twilight is not treated as daylight for these purposes; the night-operation conditions apply.

Question 41UAS Flight Operations and Safety

Under the small unmanned aircraft rules of the United States, what is the maximum groundspeed permitted for a small UAS operating under Part 107?

  1. 75 mph (65 knots)
  2. 50 mph (43 knots)
  3. 125 mph (108 knots)
  4. 100 mph (87 knots) Correct answer.

Explanation

Part 107 limits small unmanned aircraft to a maximum groundspeed of 100 mph, which equals 87 knots. This cap applies regardless of altitude or airspace class within the operating rules. Exceeding it is a regulatory violation even if the aircraft is capable of faster flight.

Question 42UAS Flight Operations and Safety

What is the standard maximum altitude above ground level for small UAS operations conducted under Part 107 without a waiver?

  1. 300 feet AGL
  2. 1,000 feet AGL
  3. 500 feet AGL
  4. 400 feet AGL Correct answer.

Explanation

The default ceiling for small UAS operations is 400 feet above ground level. A flight may exceed this only when operating within 400 feet of a structure, and then no higher than 400 feet above the structure's uppermost limit. This keeps unmanned traffic below most manned aircraft patterns.

Question 43UAS Flight Operations and Safety

Which visual line-of-sight requirement applies to the remote pilot in command during small UAS operations?

  1. The pilot may use first-person view goggles as the primary means
  2. The pilot may use binoculars to extend sight distance
  3. The pilot may rely solely on a visual observer's reports
  4. The pilot must maintain unaided visual contact with the aircraft Correct answer.

Explanation

The remote pilot in command must be able to see the aircraft at all times with unaided vision, meaning no binoculars, goggles, or other vision-enhancing devices. Corrective lenses such as ordinary eyeglasses are permitted. A visual observer may assist but cannot replace the pilot's own ability to see the aircraft.

Question 44UAS Flight Operations and Safety

What minimum visibility and cloud clearance is generally required for small UAS operations in Class G airspace at or below 400 feet?

  1. 3 statute miles visibility and 500 feet below clouds Correct answer.
  2. No visibility or cloud clearance requirement applies
  3. 1 statute mile visibility and clear of clouds
  4. 5 statute miles visibility and 1,000 feet above clouds

Explanation

In Class G airspace at or below 1,200 feet during the day, the standard is 3 statute miles visibility and clearance of 500 feet below, 1,000 feet above, and 2,000 feet horizontally from clouds. Remote pilots must comply with these minima to see and avoid other traffic. Operating in reduced conditions without meeting them is unlawful.

Question 45UAS Flight Operations and Safety

A remote pilot is planning a flight near a non-towered airport. What is the most appropriate see-and-avoid practice?

  1. Scan the sky in systematic sectors and listen on the CTAF Correct answer.
  2. Fly only directly over the runway to stay predictable
  3. Rely on the aircraft's ADS-B broadcast alone
  4. Assume manned traffic will avoid the unmanned aircraft

Explanation

Effective see-and-avoid requires systematic visual scanning combined with monitoring the common traffic advisory frequency to learn where manned aircraft are operating. ADS-B or other electronic aids supplement but do not replace the pilot's own eyes. Manned pilots often cannot see small UAS, so the remote pilot bears the avoidance responsibility.

Question 46UAS Flight Operations and Safety

During flight the remote pilot loses visual contact with the aircraft. What is the correct immediate action?

  1. Continue the mission using the onboard camera feed
  2. Suspend the operation until visual contact is reestablished Correct answer.
  3. Climb to regain a better vantage point
  4. Hover in place until visual contact returns

Explanation

When unaided visual contact is lost, the operation must stop until sight of the aircraft is recovered, because see-and-avoid is no longer possible. Continuing on camera feed or guessing at position creates collision risk with manned traffic. The pilot should use return-to-home or hold procedures safely while reacquiring the aircraft.

Question 47UAS Flight Operations and Safety

What is the primary purpose of a preflight risk assessment before a small UAS mission?

  1. To satisfy insurance paperwork requirements
  2. To record the pilot's flight hours for currency
  3. To calculate the aircraft's maximum payload capacity
  4. To identify hazards and decide whether the flight can proceed safely Correct answer.

Explanation

A preflight risk assessment systematically identifies hazards such as weather, airspace, crowds, and equipment condition, then weighs them to decide whether to launch, modify, or cancel. It is a decision tool, not a recordkeeping formality. Documenting the assessment also supports accountability and continuous improvement.

Question 48UAS Flight Operations and Safety

A remote pilot notices the wind is gusting near the aircraft's published maximum wind resistance. What is the safest course of action?

  1. Delay or cancel the flight until conditions are within limits Correct answer.
  2. Proceed but fly at a lower altitude to reduce wind exposure
  3. Proceed at full speed to finish before conditions worsen
  4. Add ballast to the airframe to improve stability

Explanation

Operating at or beyond the manufacturer's wind limit erodes control margins and can lead to loss of the aircraft. The safe choice is to postpone or cancel until conditions fall within published limits. Modifying the aircraft or rushing the mission does not restore a safe margin.

Question 49UAS Flight Operations and Safety

Which action best mitigates the risk of collision when flying near a highway with moving vehicles?

  1. Turn off obstacle avoidance to reduce latency
  2. Fly lower to stay beneath the vehicles' sightline
  3. Plan the route to avoid sustained flight over traffic Correct answer.
  4. Increase speed to minimize time over the road

Explanation

The most reliable mitigation is to design the flight path so the aircraft does not loiter over moving traffic, reducing exposure if a failure occurs. Route planning addresses the hazard at its source rather than relying on pilot reaction. Disabling safety systems or flying lower increases rather than reduces risk.

Question 50UAS Flight Operations and Safety

What does a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) most commonly provide to a remote pilot?

  1. The aircraft's registration renewal date
  2. Time-critical information about airspace or facility changes Correct answer.
  3. The manufacturer's recommended maintenance interval
  4. The local weather forecast for the next week

Explanation

NOTAMs communicate time-critical, temporary changes such as closed runways, active parachute operations, or temporary flight restrictions. Remote pilots should check them during preflight planning because they can invalidate an otherwise legal flight. They are not maintenance schedules or long-range forecasts.