sUAS Operational Regulations

Question 1

Can a sUAS operate at night?

Answer 1

No. Only from dawn to dusk. Defined as 30 minutes before sun rises and 30 minute after sun sets.

Question 2

What must an sUAS have to operate during twilight?

Answer 2

sUAS must have anti-collision lights visible for 3 statute miles. Remote PIC may dim lights if they impact night vision.

Question 3

How does the FAA define twilight?

Answer 3

30 minutes before the sun rises to 30 minutes after the sun sets.

Question 4

Can a sUAS operate during twilight?

Answer 4

Only if it has anti-collision lights visible up to 3 statue miles.

Question 5

What visibility is required from remote operation base?

Answer 5

At least 3 statute miles.

Question 6

How close can a sUAS operate to a cloud?

Answer 6

500 feet under and 2,000 feet horizontally.

Question 7

Define Visual Line of Sight

Answer 7

Vision of the sUAS unaided by any device except corrective lenses.

Question 8

Must the remote PIC keep the sUAS within a visual line of sight?

Answer 8

The sUAS must be within visual line of sight at all times.

Question 9

Can a remote PIC use visual aids such as binoculars?

Answer 9

Yes, the remote PIC may momentarily use binocs to enhance situational awareness, to avoid collisions with obstacles, give right of way to other flying craft, etc.

Question 10

What is the maximum speed of a sUAS?

Answer 10

A ground speed of 87 knots or 100 miles per hour.

Question 11

What is the maximum height at which a sUAS can operate?

Answer 11

Not more than 400 feet Above Ground Level (AGL)

Question 12

What is the maximum height if sUAS is being operated from a building?

Answer 12

A sUAS may fly 400 feet above the highest point of a building, but must stay within a 400 foot radius of the building.

Question 13

What precautions must a remote PIC take when operating near an airport?

Answer 13

The remote PIC may not operate in such a manner that interferes with the traffic operations of any airport, heliport, or seaport.

Question 14

What responsibilities does the remote PIC have with regards to seeing and avoiding air traffic and obstacles?

Answer 14

The remote PIC is responsible for ensuring the mission operating area remains clear of obstacles, and yields to all other traffic.

Question 15

What is See and Avoid?

Answer 15

Has to do with Right of Way. The Remote PIC must see and give the right of way to all obstacles.

Question 16

Can FPV camera be used to See and Avoid?

Answer 16

Yes, but only as a backup.

Question 17

What responsibility does the visual observer have regarding the sUAS?

Answer 17

The visual observer must keep the sUAS in line of sight at all times. Visual aids like binocs and FPV camera may be used to help with the process, but only as a backup.

Question 18

What is the remote PIC responsibility regarding non -participants?

Answer 18

The remote PIC must make plans to select an operational area that is sparsely populated. If populated, the remote PIC must make a plan to keep the operational area clear of non-participants. The remote PIC must also take reasonable precautions to keep the operational area free of non-participants.

Question 19

May the remote PIC operate from a moving vehicle or boat?

Answer 19

Yes, but only in a sparsely populated area, and only if there are contingency plans to keep the sUAS clear of anyone who approaches. Also, the remote PIC MAY NOT operate from a vehicle or boat if transporting another person’s property.

Question 20

Can a sUAS be used to deliver property?

Answer 20

Yes, but the total weight must be below 55 pounds, must operate within the boundaries of a state, and the property cannot be dropped in such a way that creates a hazard. Also, no operation from a moving vehicle or boat.

Question 21

What is the maximum weight?

Answer 21

Take off weight of 0.55 to 55 pounds. MUST BE REGISTERED.

Question 22

Can a sUAS carry hazardous material?

Answer 22

No.

Question 23

Can a sUAS drop a payload from a car or boat?

Answer 23

No, must be from a fixed mission platform.

Question 24

Should a payload be logged?

Answer 24

Suggested, but not required.

Question 25

Who should be consulted for weight and balance limits?

Answer 25

The manufacturer. Review the Pilot Operating Handbook. POH.