FAATo avoid a possible collision with a manned airplane, you estimate that your small UA climbed to an altitude greater than 600 feet AGL. To whom must you report the deviation?
- ❌A:Air Traffic Control.
- ❌B:The National Transportation Safety Board.
- ✅C:Upon request of the Federal Aviation Administration.
Explanations
- A: Incorrect. While Air Traffic Control (ATC) plays a crucial role in managing airspace and ensuring safety, they are not the designated recipient of regulatory deviation reports unless specifically involved in the operation. Reporting to ATC instead of the FAA could lead to miscommunication and potential regulatory issues, impacting your business's reputation and operational efficiency.
- B: Incorrect. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is responsible for accident investigations, not routine altitude deviations unless an accident has occurred. Reporting to the NTSB instead of the FAA could cause unnecessary confusion and delay in addressing the deviation, potentially affecting your business operations and client relationships.
- C: Correct. Under 14 CFR Part 107.21(b), a remote pilot must report any deviation from a regulation to the FAA, but only upon request. This ensures that the FAA can effectively monitor and regulate drone operations, maintaining safety and compliance. For businesses, this means maintaining a good standing with the FAA, avoiding potential fines, and demonstrating a commitment to safety to clients.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Understanding the correct reporting procedures for regulatory deviations is crucial for maintaining safety, compliance, and operational efficiency in your drone business. Misreporting or failing to report a deviation can lead to regulatory issues, potential fines, and damage to your business's reputation.
Safety & Liability Considerations
In the event of a deviation to avoid a collision, safety is the primary concern. However, after ensuring safety, it's essential to understand the reporting requirements to avoid potential regulatory violations and associated fines, which could impact your business's profitability and reputation.
Consider This Scenario
A commercial drone operator working in real estate photography had to quickly climb their drone to avoid a low-flying helicopter, resulting in an altitude breach. The operator, understanding the importance of proper reporting, waited for a request from the FAA and promptly reported the deviation, explaining the emergency situation. This proactive approach helped maintain their good standing with the FAA and demonstrated their commitment to safety to their clients.
What the FAA is Testing
The FAA wants to ensure that remote pilots understand the correct reporting procedures in the event of a regulatory deviation. This includes knowing who to report to and when to ensure effective regulation and safety in the airspace.
Business Success Strategy
Ensure your team understands the correct reporting procedures and create a checklist or decision tree to guide them in the event of a deviation. This not only helps maintain safety and compliance but also demonstrates your business's commitment to these principles to clients.
Memory Aid
Accidents meeting limits must be reported automatically. This deviation must be reported only upon Request.
Enhanced References
14 CFR Part 107.21(b), FAA Advisory Circular AC 107-2A, Section 4.8: Emergency Procedures
Related Concepts
- Part 107.21: Emergency deviations and reporting requirements
- FAA expectations for remote pilot authority and responsibility
- Risk mitigation when avoiding collisions
- Protocol for post-flight event documentation
ACS Code: UA.V.C.K1
Difficulty: basic