FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)Airspace and Operating RequirementsHard
While operating a small UAS in Class G airspace, a remote pilot spots a hot air balloon approaching at the same altitude. Under the right-of-way rules, what action must the remote pilot take?
- AGive way to the balloon since it has right-of-way over the small UAS
- BContact the balloon pilot by radio to negotiate right-of-way
- CMaintain course and altitude since sUAS have right-of-way over unpowered aircraft
- DRight-of-way rules do not apply to unpowered aircraft such as balloons
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Give way to the balloon since it has right-of-way over the small UAS
Under 14 CFR 107.37, small UAS must yield right-of-way to all other aircraft, including balloons, gliders, and other unpowered aircraft, since they have very limited maneuverability; the remote pilot must alter the UAS's flight path to avoid a collision.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. sUAS operators typically have no radio communication with balloon pilots and cannot rely on this.
- C. sUAS never have right-of-way over manned aircraft, including unpowered ones.
- D. Right-of-way rules apply to all aircraft, including unpowered ones like balloons and gliders.
Right-of-Way to Unpowered Aircraft
Under 107.37, small UAS must yield right-of-way to all manned aircraft, including unpowered aircraft such as balloons and gliders, due to their limited maneuverability.
- sUAS always yields to manned aircraft
- Applies to balloons, gliders, airplanes, helicopters alike
- Remote pilot must alter flight path to avoid collision
Memory trick: Balloons can't dodge, so drones always yield.