StudyWhat requirements apply when operating in the vicinity of airports?
- ❌A:Notification to airport operator is sufficient
- ✅B:ATC authorization required for controlled airspace operations
- ❌C:Operations prohibited within 5 miles of any airport
Explanations
- A: While notifying the airport operator is a good practice, it's not sufficient when operating in controlled airspace. Not obtaining the necessary ATC authorization can lead to safety risks such as potential collisions and regulatory consequences including fines and license suspension.
- B: Correct. ATC authorization is required for operations in controlled airspace around airports. This is crucial to maintain safety and avoid potential collisions, damage, and injury. From a business perspective, failure to obtain ATC authorization can lead to fines, legal issues, and damage to your company's reputation.
- C: Operations are not categorically prohibited within 5 miles of any airport. However, operating without the necessary ATC authorization in controlled airspace can lead to safety risks and regulatory consequences. Misunderstanding this can limit business opportunities and lead to unnecessary operational restrictions.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Understanding the requirements for operating in the vicinity of airports is crucial for your drone business. Misinterpretation of these regulations can lead to safety risks, regulatory consequences, and missed business opportunities.
Safety & Liability Considerations
Operating in controlled airspace without the necessary ATC authorization can lead to potential collisions, damage, and injury. From a liability perspective, this could result in fines, legal issues, and damage to your company's reputation.
Consider This Scenario
Consider a real estate company that uses drones for property inspections. They have a new project near a controlled airport. The drone operator, unaware of the need for ATC authorization, only notifies the airport operator and proceeds with the operation. This leads to an FAA investigation, resulting in fines and a temporary suspension of their drone operations, causing significant business disruption and financial loss.
What the FAA is Testing
The FAA wants to ensure that drone operators understand the requirements for operating near airports, particularly the need for ATC authorization in controlled airspace. This is crucial for maintaining safety and regulatory compliance.
Business Success Strategy
Ensure you and your team fully understand the requirements for operating near airports. Use the LAANC system to obtain necessary authorizations efficiently. Always prioritize safety and regulatory compliance to maintain your business reputation and avoid unnecessary disruptions.
Memory Aid
Remember the phrase "Controlled Calls for Clearance" to recall that operations in controlled airspace around airports require ATC authorization.
Enhanced References
FAA Part 107.41, FAA Advisory Circular 107-2A, Section 5.5.2, "Airspace Authorization"
Related Concepts
- Controlled vs. uncontrolled airspace
- LAANC authorization system
- Airport airspace structure
ACS Code: UA.I.B.K17
Difficulty: intermediate