Fly High Course
Introduction

Chapter 1: Introduction to Part 107

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Chapter 1: Introduction to Part 107

  • Overview of Part 107 regulations

  • Importance of understanding and complying with the rules

  • Scope and limitations of Part 107

1.1 Overview of Part 107 regulations

  • Part 107 refers to the Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) rules set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

  • These regulations govern the commercial use of drones weighing less than 55 pounds (25 kg)

  • Part 107 was implemented on August 29, 2016, to ensure safe and responsible use of drones in the National Airspace System (NAS)

1.3 Scope and limitations of Part 107

  • Part 107 applies to commercial drone operations, which include any use of a drone for business purposes, such as aerial photography, surveying, or delivery services

  • Recreational drone use is governed by separate rules under the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft (49 U.S.C. 44809)

  • Part 107 does not apply to drones weighing more than 55 pounds, which are subject to different regulations

  • Certain operations, such as flying at night, over people, or beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), require additional waivers or permissions from the FAA

1.2 Importance of understanding and complying with the rules

  • Compliance with Part 107 regulations is mandatory for all commercial drone pilots operating in the United States

  • Failure to comply with these rules can result in civil penalties, fines, and potential criminal charges

  • Understanding and adhering to Part 107 regulations ensures the safety of the public, other aircraft, and property

  • Compliance also helps maintain the integrity and reputation of the commercial drone industry

1.4 Key requirements for Part 107 compliance

  • Drone pilots must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate with a small UAS rating from the FAA

  • Drones must be registered with the FAA and properly marked with the registration number

  • Pilots must conduct pre-flight inspections and maintain records of their operations

  • Drones must be flown within visual line of sight (VLOS) and at or below 400 feet above ground level (AGL)

  • Pilots must yield the right of way to manned aircraft and avoid flying over people or moving vehicles

By understanding the scope, importance, and key requirements of Part 107 regulations, commercial drone pilots can ensure safe, legal, and responsible operations.

Example

Sarah, a professional photographer, has recently decided to expand her business by offering aerial photography services using drones. She purchases a DJI Mavic 2 Pro, which weighs less than 55 pounds, and is excited to start her new venture.

Before conducting her first commercial flight, Sarah visits the FAA website to learn about the requirements for operating a drone for business purposes. She discovers that she needs to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate with a small UAS rating to legally fly her drone for commercial use.

Sarah studies the Part 107 regulations and schedules an appointment at a nearby FAA-approved knowledge testing center. She passes the Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) knowledge test with a score of 85% and submits her application for a Remote Pilot Certificate, which she receives a few weeks later.

Next, Sarah registers her DJI Mavic 2 Pro with the FAA and marks the drone with the registration number as required by the regulations. She also develops a pre-flight checklist to ensure that her drone is in proper working condition before each flight.

For her first commercial job, Sarah is hired to take aerial photographs of a real estate property. On the day of the shoot, she arrives at the location and conducts a thorough pre-flight inspection of her drone. She checks the weather conditions and notices that the wind speed is within the acceptable range for safe flight operations.

During the flight, Sarah keeps her drone within visual line of sight and below 400 feet AGL, as required by Part 107. She captures stunning aerial images of the property and its surroundings, while ensuring that she maintains a safe distance from people and structures.

As she is about to conclude her flight, Sarah notices a manned helicopter approaching the area. She immediately descends her drone and yields the right of way to the helicopter, demonstrating her understanding of the importance of giving manned aircraft priority in the airspace.

After landing her drone safely, Sarah reviews the captured images and is thrilled with the results. She provides the aerial photographs to her client, who is equally impressed with the quality and unique perspectives offered by drone photography.

By familiarizing herself with Part 107 regulations, obtaining the necessary certification, and operating her drone responsibly, Sarah has successfully launched her aerial photography business while ensuring compliance with FAA rules.

Chapter Quiz

Quiz Description: Introduction to Part 107 Chapter 1

Test your knowledge on the basics of Part 107 regulations with this 10-question quiz. Designed for a less challenging study level, this quiz covers key concepts from the first chapter of the course intro to Part 107. Put your understanding to the test and assess your grasp of the fundamentals required for operating drones under Part 107 guidelines.