FAAThe most comprehensive information on a given airport is provided by
- ✅A:the Chart Supplements U.S. (formerly Airport Facility Directory).
- ❌B:Notices to Airmen (NOTAMS).
- ❌C:Terminal Area Chart (TAC).
Explanations
- A: Correct. The Chart Supplements U.S. (formerly Airport Facility Directory) provides the most comprehensive information on a given airport. This includes details about runways, lighting, communications, services, and operational procedures. For a commercial drone business, this information is crucial for flight planning and ensuring safe, compliant operations in the vicinity of airports.
- B: Incorrect. While Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) are important for understanding temporary changes or hazards at an airport, they do not provide the comprehensive data found in the Chart Supplements. NOTAMs should be used in conjunction with the Chart Supplements for complete situational awareness.
- C: Incorrect. Terminal Area Charts (TACs) provide detailed airspace and navigation information, particularly for Class B airspace, but they do not offer the comprehensive airport-specific data found in the Chart Supplements.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Understanding and utilizing the Chart Supplements U.S. is critical for any commercial drone operation. This resource provides comprehensive information about airports, which is crucial for flight planning, risk management, and regulatory compliance. Misinterpretation or ignorance of this information could lead to safety risks, regulatory violations, and potential damage to your business reputation.
Safety & Liability Considerations
Operating a drone safely near airports requires comprehensive knowledge of the airport's layout, procedures, and communication frequencies, all of which are detailed in the Chart Supplements. Misunderstanding or overlooking this information could result in dangerous situations such as collisions, damage, or injuries, as well as potential regulatory fines and liability issues.
Consider This Scenario
An agricultural drone company is contracted to survey crops near a small public-use airport. The company uses the Chart Supplements to understand the airport's layout, communication frequencies, and operational procedures. They plan their flights to avoid interfering with manned aircraft operations, communicate their intentions effectively, and ensure a safe, efficient, and compliant operation.
What the FAA is Testing
The FAA wants to ensure that remote pilots understand the importance of the Chart Supplements as the most comprehensive source of airport information. This knowledge is crucial for safe operations near airports and compliance with FAA regulations.
Business Success Strategy
Make the Chart Supplements an integral part of your pre-flight planning process. Use them in conjunction with NOTAMs and TACs to gain a complete understanding of the operational environment. This will not only enhance safety and compliance but also improve operational efficiency and client satisfaction.
Memory Aid
Think of the Chart Supplements as the "encyclopedia" of airport information. Just like an encyclopedia, it provides comprehensive and detailed information on its subject matter.
Enhanced References
FAA Chart Supplements, FAA Advisory Circular AC 107-2A on Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems, FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) resources on airport operations.
Related Concepts
- Understanding and using Chart Supplements for flight planning
- The role of NOTAMs in temporary changes or hazards
- The use of TACs for airspace and navigation information
ACS Code: UA.V.B.K6b
Difficulty: basic