StudyWhen can you operate a small UAS over people under Part 107?
- ❌A:Only with specific FAA authorization via waiver
- ✅B:With Category 1, 2, or 3 aircraft, or covered people under Category 4
- ❌C:Never, it is always prohibited
Explanations
- A: While FAA waivers can provide additional operational flexibility, they are not the only means to conduct operations over people. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.
- B: Correct. The FAA's Part 107 rules allow operations over people under specific conditions, namely with Category 1, 2, or 3 aircraft, or over covered people under Category 4. This is crucial for businesses that need to operate in populated areas, such as real estate or event photography, while maintaining safety and compliance.
- C: This statement is incorrect. While safety is paramount, the FAA does allow operations over people under certain conditions, as outlined in Part 107 Subpart D. Misunderstanding this could limit business opportunities and operational efficiency.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Understanding when you can operate a small UAS over people is crucial for many commercial drone operations, such as real estate photography, event coverage, or surveying. Misunderstanding these rules could limit your operational capabilities and business opportunities.
Safety & Liability Considerations
Operating over people presents increased risk. A malfunction or operator error could result in injury to individuals on the ground. Always prioritize safety and ensure your operations comply with the FAA's rules to mitigate these risks and potential liability.
Consider This Scenario
A real estate company wants aerial footage of a busy outdoor shopping center. The drone operator must understand the FAA's rules for operations over people to safely and legally conduct this operation. They determine their drone falls under Category 2, allowing them to fly over the shopping center while maintaining safety and compliance.
What the FAA is Testing
The FAA wants to ensure you understand the rules for operations over people under Part 107, including the specific conditions that allow such operations. This is critical for maintaining safety and compliance in commercial drone operations.
Business Success Strategy
Stay updated on FAA regulations and understand how they apply to your operations. This knowledge allows you to maximize your operational capabilities while maintaining safety and compliance, giving you a competitive edge in the drone services market.
Memory Aid
Remember the categories: Category 1, 2, or 3 aircraft, or covered people under Category 4. These are the conditions under which you can operate over people under Part 107.
Enhanced References
FAA Part 107 Subpart D, FAA Advisory Circular 107-2A on Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
Related Concepts
- UAS categories 1-4
- Covered people definition
- Risk assessment requirements
ACS Code: UA.I.E.K1
Difficulty: intermediate