FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsMedium
A client asks a remote pilot to conduct a survey flight with 2 statute miles of visibility and scattered clouds at 400 feet AGL. According to 14 CFR 107.51, is this operation legal?
- AYes, because Part 107 has no minimum visibility requirement
- BNo, because clouds are never permitted during sUAS operations
- CYes, as long as the sUAS remains below the cloud layer
- DNo, because minimum visibility from the control station must be at least 3 statute miles
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. No, because minimum visibility from the control station must be at least 3 statute miles
14 CFR 107.51 requires a minimum flight visibility of 3 statute miles from the control station. With only 2 statute miles of visibility, the operation does not meet the minimum weather requirement, regardless of cloud clearance being satisfied.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrect; Part 107 sets a specific 3-statute-mile minimum.
- B. Clouds are permitted as long as clearance distances are maintained.
- C. Cloud clearance alone does not satisfy the separate visibility requirement.
Minimum Weather Minimums (107.51)
sUAS operations require at least 3 statute miles of visibility and specific cloud clearance distances from the control station.
- Minimum visibility: 3 statute miles
- Cloud clearance: 500 ft below, 2,000 ft horizontal, 1,000 ft above
- Both visibility and cloud clearance must be met simultaneously
Memory trick: '3 miles to see, 500-2000-1000 to be clear.'