FAAAccording to 14 CFR part 48, when must a person register a small UA with the Federal Aviation Administration?
- ✅A:All civilian small UAs weighing greater than .55 pounds must be registered regardless of its intended use.
- ❌B:When the small UA is used for any purpose other than as a model aircraft.
- ❌C:Only when the operator will be paid for commercial services.
Explanations
- A: Correct. According to 14 CFR part 48, all civilian small UAs weighing more than .55 pounds must be registered, regardless of its intended use. This is a regulatory requirement to ensure safety and accountability. For businesses, it's crucial to comply to avoid potential fines and legal issues that could impact operations and profitability.
- B: Incorrect. The requirement to register a small UA is not based on its intended use as a model aircraft or otherwise. It's based on the weight of the UA. Non-compliance could lead to safety risks, regulatory violations, and potential business disruptions.
- C: Incorrect. The requirement for registration is not solely based on whether the operator will be paid for commercial services. It's based on the weight of the UA. Misunderstanding this could lead to regulatory non-compliance, potential fines, and negative business implications.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Understanding and complying with FAA regulations, including the requirement to register small UAs, is critical for any drone business. Non-compliance can lead to fines, legal issues, and potential business disruptions, impacting your bottom line and reputation.
Safety & Liability Considerations
Registering your drone is not just a regulatory requirement, it's a safety measure. It ensures accountability in the event of an incident or accident, protecting your business from potential liability.
Consider This Scenario
A real estate photography company purchases several new drones for their operations. They assume that since these drones will be used for commercial purposes, they need to be registered. However, they overlook the weight requirement and fail to register a small drone weighing just over .55 pounds. During a shoot, this unregistered drone collides with a property, causing damage. The company faces potential fines for operating an unregistered drone, liability for the property damage, and a damaged reputation.
What the FAA is Testing
The FAA wants to ensure you understand the requirements for drone registration, specifically the weight threshold that triggers this requirement, regardless of the drone's intended use.
Business Success Strategy
Stay updated on FAA regulations and ensure all your drones are registered as required. Incorporate regular checks into your operational procedures to maintain compliance and protect your business.
Memory Aid
"55 stay alive" -- okay that's an old speed limit rhyme. For the drone is .55 -- register it so you follow all regulations.
Enhanced References
14 CFR Part 48, FAA Drone Registration Guide, Case Study: Impact of Non-Compliance on Drone Businesses.
Related Concepts
- FAA registration process
- Impact of non-compliance on business operations
- Safety implications of unregistered UAs
ACS Code: UA.I.B.K1
Difficulty: basic