FAA Part 107 sUAS Recurrent (ALC-677) flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Maximum sUAS weight

A small unmanned aircraft, including everything attached or carried, must weigh less than 55 pounds (25 kg) at takeoff to operate under Part 107.

Recurrent training interval

A Remote Pilot must complete recurrent training or pass the knowledge test within the preceding 24 calendar months to maintain operating privileges under Part 107.

Maximum groundspeed

Part 107 limits small UAS groundspeed to 87 knots (100 mph) unless a waiver is obtained from the FAA.

Maximum altitude rule

Operations are limited to 400 feet AGL, or 400 feet above a structure's uppermost limit when flying within a 400-foot radius of that structure.

Class B airspace

Controlled airspace generally from the surface to 10,000 feet MSL around major terminal areas; sUAS operations require prior ATC authorization.

Class G airspace

Uncontrolled airspace that generally extends from the surface to 1,200 feet AGL in most of the U.S.; no ATC authorization is required for sUAS operations.

LAANC

Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability provides near-real-time airspace authorization for sUAS operations in controlled airspace at participating airports.

Temporary Flight Restriction

A TFR is a temporary restriction on flight in a defined area, often for security, disasters, or events; flight is prohibited unless authorized by the issuing agency.

Density altitude

Density altitude is pressure altitude corrected for nonstandard temperature; high density altitude reduces lift and propeller efficiency and degrades climb performance.

METAR

A METAR is a routine surface weather observation reporting wind, visibility, clouds, temperature, dew point, and altimeter setting at an airport.

TAF

A Terminal Aerodrome Forecast is a forecast of wind, visibility, clouds, and weather expected within 5 statute miles of an airport, typically valid 24-30 hours.

Center of gravity

The point where the aircraft's weight is balanced; payload placement must keep the CG within the manufacturer's specified limits for stable flight.

Payload effect on performance

Adding payload increases weight, which reduces climb rate, endurance, and wind penetration, and may require higher power settings.

Return to Home

An automated function that flies the aircraft back to the launch point, typically at a preset altitude, when the link is lost or the pilot commands it.

Lost link procedure

When the control link is lost, the aircraft typically executes RTH; the pilot should verify the RTH altitude clears obstacles and monitor telemetry.

Emergency authority

The Remote PIC may deviate from Part 107 rules to the extent necessary to meet an emergency and must report the deviation to the FAA if requested.

Visual Observer role

The VO assists the Remote PIC by maintaining visual contact with the aircraft and scanning for traffic and hazards; the VO does not control the aircraft.

Sterile cockpit

A period during critical phases of flight when nonessential conversation and activity are minimized to maintain focus on the operation.

Phonetic alphabet

A standard set of words (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, etc.) used to spell letters clearly over radio to avoid misunderstanding.

MAYDAY call

The international distress call used to indicate imminent danger requiring immediate assistance; state call sign, position, and nature of the emergency.

Battery reserve

A planned remaining battery capacity, typically 20-30 percent, kept in reserve for return-to-home and landing contingencies.

Wind resistance limit

The manufacturer's maximum specified wind speed at which the aircraft can be safely controlled; operations near or above this limit are unsafe.

Endurance calculation

Endurance is estimated from battery capacity and current draw; plan cruise time, hover time, and reserve to ensure a safe return.

Alcohol rule

No person may operate an sUAS within 8 hours of consuming alcohol, while under the influence, or with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04 percent or greater.

IMSAFE checklist

A preflight self-assessment covering Illness, Medication, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue, and Emotion to determine fitness for flight.

PAVE checklist

A risk assessment tool covering Pilot, Aircraft, enVironment, and External pressures to identify and mitigate hazards before flight.

DECIDE model

A decision-making model: Detect the change, Estimate the need to react, Choose the outcome, Identify actions, Do the actions, Evaluate the results.

Runway hold-short line

Solid yellow lines (two solid and two dashed at towered airports) marking where an aircraft must stop before entering a runway.

Traffic pattern legs

The standard left-hand pattern consists of upwind, crosswind, downwind, base, and final legs around the airport.

Preflight inspection

A systematic check of airframe, propellers, motors, battery, gimbal, and control station before flight to confirm airworthiness and readiness.

Battery inspection

Check charge level, cell balance, and for swelling or damage before each flight; damaged or swollen batteries must be removed from service.

Night anti-collision lighting

Night operations require anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles to determine the aircraft's location and orientation.