StudyWhich weather phenomena create the most turbulence for UAS?
- ❌A:Light rain and overcast skies
- ✅B:Thunderstorms and associated convective activity
- ❌C:High pressure systems with clear skies
Explanations
- A: While light rain and overcast skies may affect visibility, they do not typically create significant turbulence for UAS operations. Therefore, while these conditions may require additional safety precautions, they are not the primary cause of turbulence.
- B: Correct. Thunderstorms and associated convective activity are known to create severe turbulence. This is due to the rapid upward and downward movement of air within these weather systems. Operating a UAS in these conditions can lead to loss of control, potential damage to the drone, and even injury to people or property on the ground. From a business perspective, this could result in costly repairs, liability issues, and potential loss of client trust.
- C: High pressure systems with clear skies are typically associated with stable, calm weather conditions. These conditions are generally favorable for UAS operations and do not create significant turbulence.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Understanding how different weather conditions affect UAS operations is crucial for planning and executing safe and successful drone missions. Operating in turbulent conditions can lead to loss of control, potential damage to the drone, and even injury to people or property on the ground. This could result in costly repairs, liability issues, and potential loss of client trust.
Safety & Liability Considerations
Operating a UAS in turbulent conditions, such as those created by thunderstorms and convective activity, can lead to loss of control, potential damage to the drone, and even injury to people or property on the ground. This could result in costly repairs, liability issues, and potential loss of client trust.
Consider This Scenario
A commercial drone operator is hired to conduct a survey of a construction site. The forecast predicts thunderstorms in the area. Despite the client's urgency, the operator decides to postpone the mission until the weather clears. The operator explains the risks associated with operating in turbulent conditions to the client, who appreciates the operator's commitment to safety and professionalism.
What the FAA is Testing
This question tests the understanding of how different weather phenomena can affect UAS operations, specifically in terms of turbulence. The FAA wants to ensure that remote pilots understand the risks associated with operating in turbulent conditions and make safety a top priority.
Business Success Strategy
Always check the weather forecast before planning a drone mission. If turbulent conditions are predicted, consider postponing the mission or making alternative arrangements. Communicate clearly with your clients about the risks associated with operating in turbulent conditions and your commitment to safety.
Memory Aid
Remember the phrase "Thunderstorms Turn Turbulent" to recall that thunderstorms and associated convective activity create the most turbulence for UAS.
Enhanced References
FAA Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) Chapter 7-1-30, "Turbulence"
Related Concepts
- Convective weather hazards
- Turbulence intensity
- Weather avoidance strategies
ACS Code: UA.III.B.K1e
Difficulty: basic