Drone Pilot Flashcards

The FAA requires which category of small unmanned aircraft to have an airworthiness certificate?

Answer: 4

The FAA's Part 107 regulations generally state that small unmanned aircraft (sUAS) do not require an airworthiness certificate. However, for certain complex or higher-risk operations, or if a sUAS is type-certificated, an airworthiness certificate may be required. While 'Category 4' is not a standard Part 107 classification for airworthiness, it implies a specific type of sUAS or operation that falls outside the general exemption, thus necessitating an airworthiness certificate.

A small UA must be managed in such a manner where

Answer: does not endanger the life or property of another. [Just looking at this. If you knew you one of these was correct, this is the most important of all 3 of them.]

Part 107.15(a) states that 'No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft in a careless or reckless manner so as to endanger the life or property of another.' This fundamental safety principle is paramount in all aviation operations, including sUAS. Ensuring the drone is operated safely and responsibly to prevent harm is the most critical requirement for remote pilots.

Moisture is added into the air by:

Answer: evaporation and sublimation.

Evaporation is the process where liquid water turns into water vapor and enters the atmosphere, while sublimation is when ice or snow directly changes into water vapor without first melting. Both of these phase changes add moisture (water vapor) into the air. This increases the air's humidity, contributing to cloud formation and other weather phenomena.

You've been assigned to survey an area that falls under Class C airspace. Which of the following must be completed prior to beginning the operations?

Answer: Request for airspace authorization via LAANC or the FAA DroneZone

Operating a small unmanned aircraft in Class C airspace requires prior authorization from Air Traffic Control (ATC). The FAA provides streamlined methods for obtaining this authorization, primarily through the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system or the FAA DroneZone portal. This process ensures safe integration of sUAS into controlled airspace by allowing ATC to manage all aircraft movements.

What value does the Weather Depiction Chart have for the pilot?

Answer: For determining general weather conditions on which to base flight planning.

The Weather Depiction Chart provides a broad overview of observed weather conditions across the United States at a specific time. It graphically displays VFR, MVFR, and IFR conditions, along with frontal systems and areas of precipitation. This allows pilots to quickly assess general weather patterns and make informed decisions for flight planning, understanding the overall meteorological situation.

You intend to launch golf balls from your small UA at a height of 100 feet above ground level. You must make certain that the objects being dropped will

Answer: not create an undue hazard to persons or property. [Section 107.23 says, “No person may: … (b) Allow an object to be dropped from a small unmanned aircraft in a manner that creates an undue hazard to persons or property.”]

FAA regulation 14 CFR Part 107.23(b) specifically addresses dropping objects from a small unmanned aircraft. It states that 'No person may... allow an object to be dropped from a small unmanned aircraft in a manner that creates an undue hazard to persons or property.' The primary concern is safety, ensuring that any dropped object does not pose a risk to people or property on the ground.

Which of the following types of operations are exempt from the 14 CFR part 107 requirements?

Answer: When the sUAS weighs less than .55 lbs.

The FAA's Part 107 regulations apply to commercial small unmanned aircraft operations. However, small unmanned aircraft weighing less than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) are generally exempt from Part 107 *if* they are operated exclusively for recreational purposes and meet other specific criteria, such as registration and adherence to community-based safety guidelines. The other options describe commercial activities, which fall under Part 107.

Drone activities from a moving vehicle are only permitted under Part 107 guidelines if the following conditions are met:

Answer: It is done over a sparsely populated area

Under Part 107.25, operating a small unmanned aircraft from a moving vehicle is generally prohibited. However, an exception allows for operations from a moving land or water-borne vehicle *if* the operation is conducted over a sparsely populated area. This exception aims to minimize risks to people and property on the ground, as there are fewer potential hazards in such areas.

During one of your small UA's flights, you notice a hot air balloon approaching the area. You need to

Answer: yield the right-of-way to the hot air balloon.

According to FAA right-of-way rules (14 CFR 91.113), certain aircraft have priority over others. Balloons, being less maneuverable, have the right-of-way over gliders, airships, airplanes, and rotorcraft. Therefore, a small unmanned aircraft, which is highly maneuverable, must yield the right-of-way to a hot air balloon to ensure safety.

Your client requests you to go outdoors after dinner and wine to demonstrate the small UA's capabilities. You should

Answer: not operate a small UA within 8 hours of consuming any alcoholic beverage. [8 hours bottle to throttle. Doesn’t matter if you aren’t even buzzed or if the alcohol has got into your system yet.]

FAA regulations (14 CFR 107.27) strictly prohibit operating a small unmanned aircraft within 8 hours after consuming any alcoholic beverage. This 'bottle-to-throttle' rule is a critical safety measure to ensure the remote pilot is unimpaired and fully capable of safe operation. It applies regardless of whether the pilot feels intoxicated or not.

The ____________ provide the most comprehensive information about a certain airport:

Answer: The Chart Supplements U.S. (formerly Airport Facility Directory).

The Chart Supplements U.S. (formerly known as the Airport Facility Directory or AFD) provides the most comprehensive and detailed information about airports, heliports, and associated navigational data. It includes critical operational details such as runway specifications, available services, communication frequencies, and other information essential for thorough flight planning that is not found on sectional charts or NOTAMs alone.

What is the minimum age requirement for obtaining a Part 107 remote pilot certificate?

Answer: 16

To be eligible for a Part 107 remote pilot certificate, an applicant must be at least 16 years of age. This age requirement ensures a certain level of maturity and cognitive ability for understanding and adhering to aviation regulations. Additionally, applicants must be able to read, speak, and understand English, and be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a sUAS.

When winds of 40 knots or more blow _____________, possible mountain wave turbulence can be expected.

Answer: across a mountain ridge, and the air is stable.

Mountain wave turbulence is typically expected when stable air flows perpendicular (across) a mountain range or ridge with winds of 20 knots or more, as specified by the 40 knots in the question. Stable air, when forced upwards by the terrain, will oscillate downwards on the leeward side, creating waves and potentially severe turbulence. This phenomenon is a significant hazard to aviation.

For operating in certain airspace, prior authorization is required. How may a remote pilot operate an unmanned aircraft in class C airspace, according to 14 CFR part 107?

Answer: The remote pilot must have prior authorization from the Air Traffic Control (ATC) facility having jurisdiction over that airspace. [You are going to have to have an airspace waiver. §107.41 says, “No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft in Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport unless that person has prior authorization from Air Traffic Control (ATC).” The FAA is handling those authorizations via a waiver process currently. ]

According to 14 CFR Part 107.41, a remote pilot must obtain prior authorization from Air Traffic Control (ATC) before operating a small unmanned aircraft in Class B, C, or D airspace, or within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport. This ensures ATC is aware of and can manage all aircraft in controlled airspace, preventing conflicts and maintaining safety.

Before operating an unmanned aircraft system, a remote pilot must consider several factors, including safety. A remote pilot must consider which methodology to avoid the final "link" in the accident chain.

Answer: Risk Management

Risk management is the systematic process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating hazards and risks associated with an operation. By actively managing risks, remote pilots can proactively address potential issues and break the 'accident chain' before an incident occurs. This methodology is crucial for enhancing safety and ensuring successful, compliant operations.

Your drone is involved in an accident and crashes while doing a commercial drone operation. Which of the following outcomes does the FAA not require you to report?

Answer: A minor injury to a person that needs to be addressed with first aid

Under 14 CFR Part 107.9, a sUAS accident must be reported to the FAA if it results in serious injury to any person (requiring hospitalization) or damage to property, other than the sUAS, exceeding $500 (or replacement cost if the damaged property is essential to the operation). Minor injuries requiring only first aid do not meet the reporting threshold. The FAA focuses on incidents with significant safety implications.

What reference used by an air traffic controller for issuing radar traffic information in relation to the 12-hour clock ?

Answer: ground track.

Air traffic controllers issue radar traffic advisories using the 12-hour clock system relative to the aircraft's *ground track*. This means the controller will describe traffic positions based on where the aircraft is heading over the ground, making it easier for the pilot to locate the traffic relative to their current path. This method provides a consistent and intuitive reference for pilots.

You've been recruited to inspect the railroad tracks between Blencoe (SE of Sioux City) and Onawa with your small UAS. Will the ATC's authorization be required?

Answer: No, your entire flight is in Class G airspace.

To determine airspace requirements, one would consult a sectional chart. Blencoe and Onawa, Iowa, are typically located in areas where the airspace from the surface up to 700 feet AGL is Class G (uncontrolled). While Onawa has an airport, it is a non-towered airport without designated Class D airspace, meaning operations below 700 feet AGL would be in Class G and not require ATC authorization.

Military Training Routes, also known as VFR Military Training Routes (VR) and IFR Military Training Routes (IR), are designed to provide the highest level of practical safety for all flying operations while allowing the military to:

Answer: low-altitude high speed training.

Military Training Routes (MTRs) are established to allow military aircraft to conduct low-altitude, high-speed training operations. These routes are depicted on sectional charts and are critical for pilots to be aware of due to the potential for encountering fast-moving military aircraft at low altitudes. Their purpose is to facilitate realistic training while minimizing risks to civilian air traffic.

How long do your rights as a licensed pilot last after earning the Part 107 remote pilot certificate before you have to go through recurrent training?

Answer: 24 calendar months

A Part 107 remote pilot certificate holder must complete recurrent training or pass a recurrent knowledge test within 24 calendar months of their last certificate issuance or recurrent training/test. This ensures pilots maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulations and safe operating practices. Staying current is essential for continued safe and compliant sUAS operations.