FAA Part-107-exam-prep__Basics Glossary Flashcards
Term
Definition
Above Ground Level (AGL)
The altitude at which an aircraft, including a drone, is flying. Drones may operate up to 400 feet above the ground but can go higher if within 400 feet of a structure.
Airman
Any person certified by the FAA to perform a particular role, including remote pilots for drones under Part 107 regulations.
AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics)
A nonprofit organization promoting safe model aircraft operation, including drones, with free membership for those under 19.
Anemometer
A device used to measure wind speed.
ATC (Air Traffic Control)
A service provided by ground-based controllers who coordinate the movement of aircraft.
Authorization
FAA permission for an aircraft operator to deviate from specific regulations, typically for certain operations or time periods.
Certificate of Authorization or Waiver (COA)
FAA approval for a request to deviate from current regulations.
Controlled Airspace
Defined areas where the FAA regulates air traffic. Includes Class A, B, C, D, E, and F airspace. Drones can fly in Class G airspace without FAA permission.
Controller
The device or system used to control a drone’s flight, which can be a dedicated device, mobile app, or part of a larger system.
Drone
A remotely operated aircraft, typically used for recreation or commercial purposes.
FAA (Federal Aviation Administration)
The US government body responsible for civil aviation regulation, including drone operations.
Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs)
Regulations contained in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) that govern all aspects of civil aviation.
FSDO (Flight Standards District Office)
FAA offices providing services and regulatory enforcement within the aviation community.
Geofencing
A software feature using GPS to create a virtual boundary, preventing drones from entering restricted areas.
Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)
Systems like GPS and GLONASS used for navigation, allowing drones to determine their location accurately.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
A US satellite-based navigation system providing location information.
Gimbal
A mount that stabilizes a drone’s camera, keeping it steady during flight.
Lithium Ion (Li-ion) Battery
A rechargeable battery commonly used in drones, subject to restrictions when transported by air.
Lithium Polymer (LiPo) Battery
A type of rechargeable battery with a polymer casing, also used in drones and facing air transport restrictions.
Flyaway
A situation where the link between a drone and its controller is lost, causing the drone to behave unpredictably.
Model Aircraft
Aircraft flown within visual line-of-sight for recreational purposes, regulated under different rules than commercial drones.
Notice to Airmen (NOTAM)
FAA notices providing information on changes or conditions affecting flight operations.
Part 101
Regulations governing certain model aircraft, including some drones used recreationally.
Part 107
Regulations for the commercial use of small drones weighing less than 55 pounds.
Remote Pilot Certificate
An FAA certificate allowing the holder to operate small drones under Part 107 regulations.
Remote Pilot in Command (Remote PIC)
The person responsible for the flight of a drone under Part 107 regulations.
Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS)
A system including a drone and its control mechanisms, weighing less than 55 pounds when fully loaded.
Pitch
The upward or downward movement of a drone’s nose.
Roll
The left or right rotational movement of a drone around its longitudinal axis.
Yaw
The left or right rotational movement of a drone around its vertical axis.
FPV (First-Person View)
A control method where the operator views the drone’s perspective via a screen or wearable viewer.
Photogrammetry
Making measurements from photographs, often used in creating maps or 3D models from drone-captured images.
Quadcopter
A drone with four rotors, commonly used for recreational and commercial purposes.
Ready to Fly (RTF)
A drone that includes all necessary components for immediate flight after basic setup.
Visual Line-of-Sight (VLOS)
The requirement for drone operators to maintain unaided visual contact with their drone during flight.
Visual Observer (VO)
A person assisting the remote PIC by watching the drone and the surrounding airspace to help avoid obstacles.
