FAA(Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2H, Figure 20, area 5.) How would a remote PIC "CHECK NOTAMS" as noted in the CAUTION box regarding the unmarked balloon?
- ❌A:By utilizing the B4UFLY mobile application.
- ❌B:By contacting the FAA district office.
- ✅C:By obtaining a briefing via an online source such as 1800WXBrief.com.
FAA-CT-8080-2H Figure 20 Area 5 - Click to enlarge.
Answer Figure
Click to enlarge answer figure
Explanations
- A: While the B4UFLY mobile application provides valuable airspace awareness, it does not include active NOTAMs or specific hazard updates like balloon tethers. Relying solely on this tool could lead to missed critical safety information, potential collisions, and regulatory violations.
- B: Contacting the FAA district office is not a standard or efficient method for obtaining real-time NOTAMs. This approach could result in outdated or incomplete information, increasing operational risks and potential for regulatory non-compliance.
- C: Online tools such as 1800WXBrief.com provide up-to-date NOTAMs and hazard alerts. Utilizing these resources allows a remote PIC to identify active balloon zones before flight, enhancing safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Understanding how to properly check NOTAMs is crucial for any commercial drone operation. It ensures safety by alerting the operator to potential hazards, helps maintain regulatory compliance, and contributes to operational efficiency by preventing unnecessary disruptions or rerouting mid-flight.
Safety & Liability Considerations
Checking NOTAMs is a critical step in preflight planning to ensure safety. Missing a NOTAM about an unmarked balloon, for example, could lead to a collision, causing damage or injury. This could also result in liability issues and potential regulatory fines.
Consider This Scenario
A commercial drone operator is hired to conduct a real estate photography shoot. The operator, aware of the importance of checking NOTAMs, uses an online briefing tool like 1800WXBrief.com before the flight. The tool alerts the operator to an unmarked balloon in the area, allowing them to adjust their flight plan accordingly. As a result, the operator avoids a potential collision, completes the job safely and efficiently, and delivers high-quality images to the client.
What the FAA is Testing
The FAA wants to ensure that remote pilots understand the importance of checking NOTAMs and know how to do so correctly. This question tests the pilot's knowledge of the correct sources for obtaining NOTAMs.
Business Success Strategy
Make checking NOTAMs a standard part of your preflight planning process. Use reliable online briefing tools like 1800WXBrief.com to get the most up-to-date information. This practice will help you avoid potential hazards, maintain regulatory compliance, and run your operations more efficiently.
Memory Aid
NOTAMs are temporary changes to airspace. Always check for any in your area before flying.
Enhanced References
FAA Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), Section 5-1-3, NOTAM System; FAA Advisory Circular (AC) 107-2A, Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS)
Related Concepts
- NOTAM sources: FAA briefing tools like 1800WXBrief and Leidos Flight Service
- Hazard avoidance: Checking for balloon tethers and temporary flight restrictions
- UAS preflight planning: Integrating hazard data into route decisions
- Remote pilot responsibilities: Verifying operational risk through official channels
ACS Code: UA.II.B.K5
Difficulty: basic