FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)RegulationsHard
A company holds a Part 107 waiver authorizing beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations. The waiver's conditions require the pilot to issue a NOTAM before each flight. What is the primary purpose of this NOTAM requirement?
- ATo notify other airspace users, such as manned aircraft pilots, of the planned sUAS activity in the area
- BTo request temporary controlled airspace authorization from ATC
- CTo replace the need for a visual observer during the BVLOS flight
- DTo satisfy FAA record-keeping requirements for billing purposes
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. To notify other airspace users, such as manned aircraft pilots, of the planned sUAS activity in the area
A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) alerts other airspace users, including manned aircraft pilots, to time-critical information such as planned sUAS operations, helping them avoid the area or exercise caution. It is a common condition attached to waivers for operations like BVLOS where the risk to other aircraft is higher.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. NOTAMs inform, but do not themselves grant controlled airspace authorization.
- C. A NOTAM does not substitute for a visual observer or other risk mitigations.
- D. NOTAMs are a safety communication tool, not a billing mechanism.
NOTAM for sUAS Operations
A Notice to Airmen used to alert pilots and other airspace users of specific, often temporary, information such as a waived BVLOS or higher-risk sUAS operation.
- Not required for standard Part 107 operations, but may be a waiver condition
- Published through the FAA NOTAM system
- Helps manned aircraft avoid or exercise caution near the sUAS operation
Memory trick: 'NOTAM shouts: heads up, drone below!'