FAA Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) Knowledge Test — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Under what condition is a Remote Pilot in Command (PIC) allowed to operate a small unmanned aircraft from a moving vehicle?

When operating over a sparsely populated area. (Correct answer)
When the vehicle is moving slower than 25 mph.
For the purposes of transporting property for compensation or hire.
During daylight hours only.

Correct answer: When operating over a sparsely populated area.

14 CFR Part 107.25 permits operation from a moving vehicle, but only when the operation is conducted over a sparsely populated area. The rule does not allow this type of operation for the transportation of property for compensation or hire.

Question 2: Which of the following incidents involving a small unmanned aircraft would NOT require the remote pilot in command to file an accident report with the FAA?

An incident where a person on the ground suffers a broken arm.
An incident causing $750 of damage to a parked car.
An incident where the sUAS, valued at $1,500, is completely destroyed after hitting a tree with no other damage or injury. (Correct answer)
An incident where a person briefly loses consciousness after being struck by the sUAS.

Correct answer: An incident where the sUAS, valued at $1,500, is completely destroyed after hitting a tree with no other damage or injury.

According to 14 CFR § 107.9, the cost of damage to the small unmanned aircraft itself is not included when determining if the $500 property damage reporting threshold has been met. Since no other property was damaged and no one was seriously injured, this incident would not require a report.

Question 3: Under Part 107, what is the minimum distance that must be maintained from a cloud during UAS operations?

200 feet horizontally and 200 feet vertically
100 feet horizontally and 100 feet vertically
400 feet horizontally and 400 feet vertically (Correct answer)
500 feet horizontally and 500 feet vertically

Correct answer: 400 feet horizontally and 400 feet vertically

FAA Part 107 regulations mandate specific cloud clearances for UAS operations to ensure safety and prevent collisions with manned aircraft. Remote pilots must maintain a minimum distance of 400 feet horizontally and 400 feet vertically from any cloud. This requirement ensures adequate visibility and separation in the airspace.

Question 4: Which of the following is a mandatory requirement for all sUAS operations conducted under Part 107, regardless of the aircraft's weight?

The sUAS must weigh less than 0.55 pounds.
The sUAS must be registered with the FAA. (Correct answer)
The operation must be conducted in Class G airspace.
The remote pilot must hold a Part 61 pilot certificate.

Correct answer: The sUAS must be registered with the FAA.

Under Part 107, all unmanned aircraft must be registered with the FAA, regardless of their weight. The 0.55-pound registration threshold only applies to recreational flyers operating under the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations.

Question 5: You are hired to inspect a 1,200-foot tall broadcast tower. According to 14 CFR Part 107, what is the maximum altitude you are permitted to fly your sUAS?

400 feet AGL
500 feet above the tower
1,600 feet AGL (Correct answer)
1,200 feet AGL

Correct answer: 1,600 feet AGL

Part 107 allows a remote pilot to operate a small UAS up to 400 feet above a structure, provided the aircraft remains within a 400-foot radius of that structure. In this scenario, the maximum altitude would be the tower's height (1,200 feet) plus 400 feet, totaling 1,600 feet AGL.

Question 6: A remote pilot is planning a flight for later in the day. Which weather product should be consulted to get an understanding of the forecast conditions expected at the specific destination airport around the planned flight time?

A Convective SIGMET, because it warns of severe thunderstorm activity.
A PIREP, because it contains real-time, in-flight observations from other pilots.
A TAF, because it provides a forecast of expected weather conditions for a 5-statute mile radius around an airport. (Correct answer)
A METAR, because it provides a detailed report of current surface weather observations.

Correct answer: A TAF, because it provides a forecast of expected weather conditions for a 5-statute mile radius around an airport.

A Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) is the correct source for future planning at a specific airport. While a METAR provides current conditions, a TAF forecasts weather for a 24 to 30-hour period within a 5-statute mile radius of an airport, making it ideal for planning flights later in the day.

Question 7: Which of the following is true regarding operations in Class G airspace for a Part 107 remote pilot?

Flights must remain at least 5 miles away from any airport.
Operations are restricted to below 200 feet AGL.
No authorization from Air Traffic Control is required. (Correct answer)
Authorization from Air Traffic Control is always required.

Correct answer: No authorization from Air Traffic Control is required.

Class G airspace is uncontrolled airspace. Part 107 operators are allowed to fly in Class G airspace without needing permission or authorization from Air Traffic Control (ATC), as long as they adhere to all other operating rules under Part 107, such as altitude and visibility requirements.

Question 8: What is the primary purpose of GPS waypoints in UAS mission planning?

To set altitude limits at different points along a route
To record locations where the UAS experienced technical malfunctions
To define predetermined geographic coordinates that guide autonomous flight paths (Correct answer)
To mark restricted airspace boundaries during flight

Correct answer: To define predetermined geographic coordinates that guide autonomous flight paths

GPS waypoints are specific geographic coordinates programmed into the UAS flight controller to define the route and actions for autonomous or semi-autonomous missions.

Question 9: A remote pilot needs a broad overview of weather patterns, including frontal systems and pressure centers, for a cross-country sUAS operation. Which of the following would be the most appropriate resource?

A Pilot Report (PIREP)
A Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF)
An Aviation Routine Weather Report (METAR)
A Graphical Forecast for Aviation (GFA) (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A Graphical Forecast for Aviation (GFA)

The Graphical Forecast for Aviation (GFA) provides a comprehensive, interactive graphical display of weather observations and forecasts across the continental U.S. It is ideal for understanding the big picture, including the location of fronts, pressure systems, and widespread weather phenomena, which is crucial for planning longer flights.

Question 10: A remote pilot is reviewing the following METAR: KLAX 182154Z 25015G25KT 10SM SCT040 23/11 A2992. What information can be derived from this report for a planned sUAS operation?

The wind is from 250 degrees true at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots, with scattered clouds at 4,000 feet AGL. (Correct answer)
Visibility is 10 nautical miles, and the temperature is 23 degrees Fahrenheit.
The altimeter setting is 29.92 inches of mercury, and there are scattered clouds at 400 feet AGL.
The wind is from 250 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots, and the sky is overcast at 4,000 feet.

Correct answer: The wind is from 250 degrees true at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots, with scattered clouds at 4,000 feet AGL.

This METAR indicates winds from 250 degrees (true north) at 15 knots with gusts to 25 knots (25015G25KT), visibility of 10 statute miles (10SM), and scattered clouds at 4,000 feet Above Ground Level (SCT040). The temperature is 23°C and the dew point is 11°C (23/11), with an altimeter setting of 29.92 inHg (A2992). It is important to remember that cloud heights in METARs are given in feet AGL.

Question 11: What is a key component of the FAA's LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) system?

Offers pilot certification training for UAS operators
Provides real-time weather updates for UAS operations
Monitors UAS flight paths for safety compliance
Allows UAS operators to obtain near real-time airspace authorizations (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Allows UAS operators to obtain near real-time airspace authorizations

LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) is a key FAA system that streamlines the process for UAS operators to obtain airspace authorizations. It allows commercial drone pilots to receive near real-time approvals for operations in controlled airspace at altitudes below 400 feet. This capability significantly enhances operational efficiency and compliance for drone pilots.

Question 12: Which of the following is a requirement for obtaining a remote pilot certificate under Part 107?

Passing an initial aeronautical knowledge test (Correct answer)
Minimum age of 18 years
Completing a flight training program
Holding a private pilot license

Correct answer: Passing an initial aeronautical knowledge test

A fundamental requirement for obtaining a remote pilot certificate under FAA Part 107 is successfully passing an initial aeronautical knowledge test. This comprehensive exam assesses an applicant's understanding of critical topics such as airspace regulations, weather, loading and performance, and emergency procedures. Demonstrating this knowledge is essential for safe and compliant UAS operations.

Question 13: Which of the following factors must be considered when selecting a launch and recovery site for UAS operations?

Availability of Wi-Fi
Accessibility of cellular networks
Time of day
Proximity to populated areas (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Proximity to populated areas

When selecting a launch and recovery site for UAS operations, proximity to populated areas is a key safety factor to consider. Operating near people or structures increases the potential risk of injury or property damage in the event of an accident or malfunction. Careful site selection minimizes these risks and ensures public safety.

Question 14: A remote pilot is operating alone and encounters an unexpected software glitch that causes erratic control inputs. The pilot begins to think, "There's nothing I can do, the drone is going to crash." This mindset is an example of which hazardous attitude?

Anti-Authority (Correct answer)
Resignation
Macho
Impulsivity

Correct answer: Anti-Authority

The hazardous attitude of resignation occurs when a pilot feels powerless and gives up, believing they cannot influence the outcome of a situation. The correct response is to continue actively seeking solutions and flying the aircraft until all options are exhausted.

Question 15: Which weather condition must be checked prior to conducting UAS operations?

Temperature
Visibility and cloud cover (Correct answer)
Air pressure
Humidity levels

Correct answer: Visibility and cloud cover

Prior to conducting UAS operations, checking visibility and cloud cover is crucial because these weather conditions directly impact the remote pilot's ability to maintain visual line of sight (VLOS). Poor visibility or low cloud ceilings can obscure the drone or other aircraft, posing significant safety risks. Adhering to weather minimums ensures safe and compliant flight operations.

Question 16: When monitoring radio communications, which is the correct and standard way a pilot would state an altitude of 9,500 feet MSL?

"Niner thousand, five hundred feet" (Correct answer)
"Ninety-five hundred"
"Nine point five, altitude"
"Niner-five-zero-zero feet"

Correct answer: "Niner thousand, five hundred feet"

According to the FAA's Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), for altitudes up to but not including 18,000 feet MSL, pilots should state the separate digits of the thousands, followed by the word "thousand," plus the hundreds. Therefore, 9,500 is stated as "Niner thousand, five hundred." [10, 17, 27]

Question 17: Which of the following scenarios involving a person on the ground would be classified as a 'serious injury', mandating an accident report to the FAA?

An injury requiring a single visit to an urgent care clinic for stitches.
A simple fracture of a toe.
An injury resulting in hospitalization for more than 48 hours. (Correct answer)
A sprained wrist that heals within a week.

Correct answer: An injury resulting in hospitalization for more than 48 hours.

Part 107 defines a 'serious injury' by referencing NTSB regulations (49 CFR part 830), which includes any injury that requires hospitalization for more than 48 hours, commencing within 7 days from the date the injury was received. Simple fractures of fingers, toes, or nose are specifically excluded.

Question 18: How does understanding the airspace classification impact UAS mission planning?

Determines the type of camera to be used
Dictates the legal requirements and restrictions (Correct answer)
Affects the choice of flight controller
Impacts the communication frequency settings

Correct answer: Dictates the legal requirements and restrictions

Understanding airspace classification is crucial for UAS mission planning because each class (e.g., Class B, C, D, E, G) dictates specific legal requirements and operational restrictions. This knowledge determines whether authorization is needed, what altitude limits apply, and what communication protocols must be followed. Proper airspace awareness ensures regulatory compliance and safe flight operations.

Question 19: A remote pilot plans to attach a new, heavier camera payload to their multirotor UAS. Which of the following is the most significant performance change the pilot should expect?

Longer flight endurance due to increased momentum.
Increased maneuverability and faster response to control inputs.
A lower center of gravity, which always improves stability.
Decreased flight endurance and potentially sluggish control response. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Decreased flight endurance and potentially sluggish control response.

Exceeding the maximum gross weight of a UAS reduces flight performance in almost every respect. The motors must work harder to generate sufficient lift, which significantly increases power consumption and decreases flight endurance. The added weight also increases inertia, which can make the aircraft feel less responsive or 'sluggish' to control inputs.

Question 20: Under FAA Part 107, which statement best describes the remote pilot's responsibility regarding GPS-based automation features?

Automation features satisfy the requirement for visual line-of-sight if the GPS track is monitored
The remote pilot-in-command remains fully responsible for the safety of flight regardless of automation used (Correct answer)
GPS automation may be used to fly beyond visual line-of-sight without a waiver if WAAS-corrected
Automated GPS flight modes transfer PIC responsibility to the UAS manufacturer

Correct answer: The remote pilot-in-command remains fully responsible for the safety of flight regardless of automation used

Under Part 107, the remote pilot-in-command retains full responsibility and authority for the safety of the flight at all times, regardless of what automation or GPS features are engaged.

Question 21: On a VFR sectional chart, what does an airport symbol depicted in magenta indicate?

The airport is restricted to military use only.
The airport has a runway longer than 8,069 feet.
The airport does not have a control tower. (Correct answer)
The airport has a control tower.

Correct answer: The airport does not have a control tower.

On sectional charts, the color of the airport symbol provides key information. Blue airport symbols indicate that the airport has an operating control tower. Magenta symbols indicate a non-towered airport, where pilots coordinate traffic amongst themselves on a common frequency.

Question 22: A Part 107 operation results in damage to a client's property. Which of the following scenarios requires the remote pilot to report the accident to the FAA?

The cost to repair the damaged property is estimated to be $450.
Damage to a client's satellite dish costs $550 to repair. (Correct answer)
The sUAS sustains $600 in damage, but there is no other damage or injury.
A non-participating person experiences a minor scratch that does not require medical attention.

Correct answer: Damage to a client's satellite dish costs $550 to repair.

An accident report must be filed with the FAA within 10 days if there is serious injury to any person or any loss of consciousness, or if there is damage to any property (other than the sUAS) where the repair cost (including labor and materials) exceeds $500. Damage to the sUAS itself is not considered in this calculation.

Question 23: While operating an sUAS, a remote pilot spots a manned helicopter on a potential collision course. According to Part 107, what is the correct course of action?

Ascend rapidly to fly above the helicopter's flight path.
Attempt to contact the helicopter pilot via radio to coordinate a safe passage.
Maintain course and speed, as the helicopter is larger and more maneuverable.
Give way to the helicopter, as sUAS must yield the right-of-way to all other aircraft. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Give way to the helicopter, as sUAS must yield the right-of-way to all other aircraft.

14 CFR 107.37 explicitly states that a small unmanned aircraft must yield the right-of-way to all aircraft, including airborne vehicles. The remote pilot must give way and may not pass over, under, or ahead of the other aircraft unless well clear.

Question 24: What is the primary reason a remote pilot in command must calculate the weight and balance of their UAS before every flight?

To ensure the UAS does not exceed the 100 mph speed limit.
To verify the battery is fully charged.
To comply with the manufacturer's specified limits for safe operation. (Correct answer)
To determine the maximum flight altitude for the mission.

Correct answer: To comply with the manufacturer's specified limits for safe operation.

Compliance with the manufacturer's specified weight and balance limits is critical for flight safety. Operating outside these limits can compromise the structural integrity of the aircraft and lead to instability or loss of control. The remote PIC is responsible for verifying the aircraft is correctly loaded before each flight.

Question 25: What is the primary difference between a METAR and a TAF?

A METAR is a forecast for a large geographical area, while a TAF is for a specific airport.
A METAR provides current, observed weather conditions, while a TAF is a forecast of future weather conditions. (Correct answer)
A TAF is issued every 20 minutes, while a METAR is issued only four times a day.
A METAR reports cloud heights in MSL, while a TAF reports them in AGL.

Correct answer: A METAR provides current, observed weather conditions, while a TAF is a forecast of future weather conditions.

The fundamental distinction is that a METAR (Meteorological Aerodrome Report) provides a snapshot of the current weather conditions observed at an airport, typically updated hourly. A TAF (Terminal Aerodrome Forecast), on the other hand, is a forecast predicting weather conditions for the next 24-30 hours for the area around an airport.

Question 26: What is the term for the point at which the airflow over an unmanned aircraft's wing becomes turbulent and separates from the surface, causing a sudden loss of lift?

Drag coefficient
Reynolds number
Mach number
Critical angle of attack (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Critical angle of attack

The critical angle of attack is the specific point at which the airflow over an unmanned aircraft's wing can no longer remain smooth and attached to the surface. Beyond this angle, the airflow separates and becomes turbulent, leading to a sudden and significant loss of lift, a condition known as a stall. Understanding this is crucial for preventing dangerous flight conditions.

Question 27: Under what conditions is a visual observer (VO) required for UAS operations?

When operating in controlled airspace
When operating beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) (Correct answer)
Always required
When the UAS weighs more than 55 pounds

Correct answer: When operating beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS)

While standard Part 107 operations require the remote pilot to maintain visual line of sight (VLOS), a visual observer (VO) becomes essential when the remote pilot cannot adequately maintain VLOS alone. The VO assists by keeping the aircraft in sight and scanning for hazards, effectively extending the operational area while still ensuring VLOS compliance. Therefore, if an operation would otherwise extend beyond the remote pilot's direct visual range, a VO is required to maintain safety and regulatory adherence.

Question 28: A remote pilot, feeling pressured to complete a job, decides to fly a mission despite the sUAS battery showing signs of degradation. The pilot thinks, "Accidents happen to other people, I'm experienced enough to handle this." Which hazardous attitude is being displayed?

Invulnerability (Correct answer)
Resignation
Anti-Authority
Macho

Correct answer: Invulnerability

The attitude of invulnerability is characterized by the belief that accidents won't happen to you. This mindset can lead pilots to take unnecessary risks, such as flying with questionable equipment, because they don't believe they will face negative consequences.

Question 29: What is Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM)?

A system that automatically updates GPS firmware
A GPS feature that allows receivers to detect faulty satellite signals (Correct answer)
A regulatory requirement for UAS GPS equipment
A backup radio navigation system used when GPS fails

Correct answer: A GPS feature that allows receivers to detect faulty satellite signals

RAIM is a GPS receiver function that cross-checks multiple satellite signals to detect and exclude faulty signals, providing integrity monitoring without external input.

Question 30: A remote pilot is preparing for a flight on a hot, humid day at an airport with a high field elevation. Which of the following effects on UAS performance should be anticipated?

Increased propeller efficiency and longer flight times.
No significant impact on performance, as UAS are unaffected by density altitude.
Reduced aircraft performance due to high density altitude. (Correct answer)
Decreased takeoff distance and improved climb performance.

Correct answer: Reduced aircraft performance due to high density altitude.

High temperature, high humidity, and high elevation all contribute to a high density altitude. High density altitude means the air is less dense, which reduces the efficiency of the propellers and motors. This leads to decreased overall aircraft performance, including longer takeoff distances, reduced climb rates, and shorter flight times.

FAA Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) Knowledge Test

The FAA UAG knowledge test is required to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate for commercial small UAS (drone) operations under 14 CFR Part 107. It covers regulations, airspace classification, weather, flight operations, and UAS loading and performance.

Questions

120 min

Time Limit

70%

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