FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsHard
A remote pilot in command is conducting an aerial survey when a rapidly developing thunderstorm cell is observed 12 nautical miles away and closing. According to AIM guidance on thunderstorm avoidance, what is the most appropriate action?
- ALand the aircraft and secure it well before the storm approaches within 20 NM
- BIncrease altitude to fly above the thunderstorm's turbulence
- CReroute around the storm cell while maintaining current altitude and continuing the mission
- DContinue the mission since 12 NM is outside the storm's immediate hazard zone
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Land the aircraft and secure it well before the storm approaches within 20 NM
The AIM recommends avoiding thunderstorms by at least 20 nautical miles due to hazards such as turbulence, hail, and lightning that can extend well beyond the visible storm cell. Since the storm is already at 12 NM and closing, the safest action is to terminate the flight and secure the aircraft immediately rather than continue operating or attempt to outmaneuver it.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. sUAS cannot safely climb above thunderstorm-associated turbulence, unlike manned aircraft.
- C. Attempting to reroute keeps the aircraft within the hazardous distance and does not eliminate risk.
- D. 12 NM is already inside the recommended 20 NM avoidance buffer, making continued flight unsafe.
Thunderstorm Avoidance (AIM Guidance)
The AIM recommends staying at least 20 NM away from thunderstorm cells due to invisible hazards like turbulence, hail, and lightning that extend beyond the visible cloud.
- Hazards can extend 20 NM or more from the visible storm
- sUAS lack means to outclimb or safely traverse storm hazards
- Immediate termination and securing of the aircraft is the safest response
Memory trick: 20 miles is the magic number — stay that far from any storm cell.