FAA 107 Payload & Performance Calculations 4

Question 1

A remote pilot calculates that adding a 0.9 lb payload reduces flight time from 28 minutes to 19 minutes. What is the approximate percentage reduction in endurance?

Accepted Answer

32%

Answer

(28 − 19) ÷ 28 × 100 = 32.1%, so the drone loses approximately 32% of its endurance.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes disc loading in the context of drone payload performance?

Accepted Answer

Total thrust divided by the total rotor disc area, which increases with added payload

Answer

Disc loading (thrust/rotor area) rises with payload weight because more thrust must be generated across the same rotor area.

Question 3

A pilot carries a 0.5 lb payload on a hot day (DA 4,000 ft). Compared to sea level standard conditions, what should the pilot expect?

Accepted Answer

Reduced available thrust, requiring higher throttle and greater battery draw to carry the same payload

Answer

High density altitude reduces air density, which decreases rotor efficiency; motors must work harder to produce the same lift, especially under payload.

Question 4

A commercial sUAS operation requires lifting a 2.2 lb sensor to 300 ft AGL in calm winds. Which specification is most critical to verify before flight?

Accepted Answer

That the payload is within the drone's rated payload capacity and the total MTOW is under 55 lbs

Answer

Confirming payload is within rated capacity and total weight is under 55 lbs ensures both manufacturer safety and FAA Part 107 compliance.

Question 5

A drone manufacturer publishes payload capacity at sea level standard conditions. How should this data be interpreted for a flight at 5,000 ft density altitude?

Accepted Answer

The actual safe payload will be less than the published figure due to reduced rotor efficiency at higher density altitude

Answer

Rated capacity is measured in standard sea-level conditions; at higher density altitude, reduced air density decreases rotor efficiency and effective payload capacity.

FAA Practice Test

FAA Practice Test

FAA 107 Payload & Performance Calculations 4