FAA 107 FAA 107 Visual Observer & Crew Resource Management 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Under Part 107, is using a visual observer (VO) required for sUAS operations?
- Yes, always required
- No, a VO is optional but may be used to assist (Correct answer)
- Yes, required in all Class G operations
- Yes, required for any commercial flight
Correct answer: No, a VO is optional but may be used to assist
Part 107 does not mandate a visual observer, but the remote pilot may use one to assist in maintaining situational awareness.
Question 2: What is the primary function of a visual observer during sUAS operations?
- Operate the drone controls as a backup
- Help maintain visual line of sight of the drone and scan for hazards (Correct answer)
- File NOTAMs on behalf of the pilot
- Communicate directly with ATC
Correct answer: Help maintain visual line of sight of the drone and scan for hazards
A visual observer assists the remote pilot by watching the sUAS and surrounding airspace to improve overall situational awareness.
Question 3: Who holds final authority and responsibility when a visual observer is used?
- The visual observer
- The FAA
- The remote pilot in command (Correct answer)
- The aircraft owner or operator
Correct answer: The remote pilot in command
The remote pilot in command retains full authority and responsibility for the safety of the operation regardless of who assists.
Question 4: What must a remote pilot and visual observer maintain throughout the entire operation?
- Constant radio contact with ATC
- Effective two-way communication with each other (Correct answer)
- Written real-time flight logs
- Current insurance documentation on site
Correct answer: Effective two-way communication with each other
The remote pilot and VO must be able to communicate effectively at all times so hazards can be reported and acted upon immediately.
Question 5: Can one visual observer watch multiple sUAS at the same time?
- Yes, up to three drones
- No, a VO may effectively watch only one drone at a time (Correct answer)
- Yes, with a Part 107 certificate endorsement
- Only with an FAA waiver
Correct answer: No, a VO may effectively watch only one drone at a time
A visual observer can only effectively monitor one drone at a time to maintain the situational awareness needed for safe operations.
Question 6: Can the remote pilot in command simultaneously serve as their own visual observer?
- Yes, when flying below 200 feet AGL
- No, these are distinct roles that cannot be performed by the same person at the same time (Correct answer)
- Yes, in Class G airspace only
- Yes, when operating a drone under 0.55 lbs
Correct answer: No, these are distinct roles that cannot be performed by the same person at the same time
The PIC must focus on controlling the aircraft and cannot simultaneously provide the dedicated observation required of a visual observer.
FAA 107 FAA 107 Visual Observer & Crew Resource Management 1
Under Part 107, is using a visual observer (VO) required for sUAS operations?