StudyWhat defines civil twilight operations for sUAS?
- ❌A:Operations between sunset and sunrise
- ✅B:Operations during the 30 minutes before sunrise and after sunset
- ❌C:Operations only during daylight hours
Explanations
- A: This is incorrect. The period between sunset and sunrise is defined as night operations, not civil twilight. Operating during this time without a waiver can pose safety risks due to reduced visibility and increased likelihood of collision. It can also lead to FAA enforcement actions, affecting your business reputation and potential revenue.
- B: This is correct. Civil twilight is defined as the period beginning 30 minutes before sunrise and ending 30 minutes after sunset, as published in the Air Almanac. Operating during civil twilight can provide unique lighting conditions for photography and videography, potentially offering a competitive advantage to your drone business. However, remember that additional lighting requirements apply during this period for safety and regulatory compliance.
- C: This is incorrect. Civil twilight extends beyond standard daylight hours, allowing for operations during the 30 minutes before sunrise and after sunset. Limiting operations to daylight hours only could restrict potential business opportunities and revenue.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Understanding the definition of civil twilight operations is crucial for commercial drone operators. This knowledge allows you to extend your operational hours beyond standard daylight, potentially offering unique lighting conditions for photography and videography that can set your business apart. However, remember that additional lighting requirements apply during this period for safety and regulatory compliance.
Safety & Liability Considerations
Operating during civil twilight can pose safety risks due to reduced visibility. Ensure your drone is equipped with the required lighting to avoid collisions and potential damage or injury. Non-compliance can also lead to FAA enforcement actions, affecting your business reputation and potential revenue.
Consider This Scenario
A real estate agency hires a drone operator to capture unique images of a property during civil twilight. The operator, understanding the definition and requirements of civil twilight operations, successfully captures stunning images during the 30 minutes after sunset, providing a competitive advantage to the agency and increasing their client satisfaction.
What the FAA is Testing
The FAA is testing your understanding of civil twilight operations for sUAS, including the timing and additional lighting requirements. This knowledge is crucial for safety and regulatory compliance.
Business Success Strategy
Leverage your understanding of civil twilight operations to offer unique services to your clients. Ensure you comply with all lighting requirements and consider obtaining a waiver for night operations to further extend your operational hours and potential revenue.
Memory Aid
Remember, civil twilight is the "30-minute bonus" before sunrise and after sunset. This can be a golden opportunity for your drone business, but don't forget the lighting requirements!
Enhanced References
FAA Part 107.29 - Daylight operation, Air Almanac for civil twilight times.
Related Concepts
- Twilight definitions in aviation
- Lighting requirements for twilight operations
- Visual reference during twilight
- FAA waivers for night operations
ACS Code: UA.I.B.K24
Difficulty: intermediate