FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsMedium
A remote pilot in command wants to conduct a sUAS aerial photography flight within the lateral boundaries of Class B airspace surrounding a major international airport. What must the pilot obtain before conducting this flight?
- AA verbal clearance from the tower controller relayed by radio during the flight
- BA Certificate of Waiver is always mandatory before any Class B operation
- CPrior authorization from ATC, typically obtained through LAANC or manual request
- DNo authorization is required as long as the aircraft stays below 100 feet AGL
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Prior authorization from ATC, typically obtained through LAANC or manual request
Operations within Class B, C, D, or the lateral boundaries of Class E surface areas require prior ATC authorization under 107.41, which can be obtained through LAANC where available or via manual request when LAANC is not offered.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. sUAS do not carry radios to receive real-time tower clearances like manned aircraft.
- B. A waiver is only needed for operations outside the rule itself, not simply for airspace access, which is handled by authorization.
- D. There is no altitude exemption from the airspace authorization requirement.
Airspace Authorization for Class B/C/D/E Surface Areas
Part 107 requires remote pilots to obtain prior ATC authorization before operating in controlled airspace surrounding towered airports, typically via LAANC.
- Required for Class B, C, D, and E surface areas
- LAANC provides near real-time automated authorization
- Manual request needed if LAANC unavailable at that location
Memory trick: Big airspace, big permission — Class B needs ATC's blessing.