StudyWhat is required for small UAS night operations under Part 107?
- ✅A:Anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles
- ❌B:Anti-collision lighting visible for at least 1 nautical mile
- ❌C:Landing lights and anti-collision lighting
Explanations
- A: Correct. According to 14 CFR 107.29, anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles is required for small UAS night operations. This is crucial to maintain safety and avoid collision, damage, and injury. Non-compliance could lead to regulatory consequences, including fines and penalties. For businesses, this could also mean loss of revenue and damage to reputation.
- B: Incorrect. While the distance is correct, the units are wrong. The FAA requires visibility for 3 statute miles, not nautical miles. Using the wrong units could lead to inadequate lighting, increasing the risk of collision and potential regulatory violations.
- C: Incorrect. Only anti-collision lighting is required for small UAS night operations under Part 107. While landing lights can enhance visibility, they are not a regulatory requirement. Misunderstanding this could lead to unnecessary expenses for businesses.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Night operations can open up new opportunities for businesses, such as real estate photography, event coverage, and surveillance. However, understanding and complying with FAA regulations is crucial to operate safely and legally.
Safety & Liability Considerations
Anti-collision lighting enhances the visibility of your drone, reducing the risk of collisions. Non-compliance with lighting requirements can lead to accidents, damage, and potential liability issues.
Consider This Scenario
A real estate company wants to capture night-time aerial shots of a property for a listing. The drone operator ensures that the drone is equipped with anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles, as per FAA regulations. This not only ensures regulatory compliance but also enhances the safety of the operation.
What the FAA is Testing
The FAA wants to ensure that drone operators understand the lighting requirements for night operations, as outlined in 14 CFR 107.29. This is to ensure safety and prevent accidents during night operations.
Business Success Strategy
Invest in high-quality anti-collision lighting for your drone. Ensure that it meets the FAA's visibility requirements. This will not only ensure compliance but also enhance the safety of your operations, protecting your business from potential liability issues.
Memory Aid
Remember the "3S Rule" - 3 Statute miles visibility for Safety during night operations. This mnemonic can help you remember the FAA's lighting requirements for small UAS night operations.
Enhanced References
14 CFR 107.29, FAA Advisory Circular 107-2A on small UAS operations, FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) resources on drone lighting requirements.
Related Concepts
- 14 CFR 107.29
- Statute miles vs nautical miles
- Anti-collision lighting specifications
ACS Code: UA.I.B.K9
Difficulty: basic