FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsMedium
A hobbyist builds a custom sUAS and wants to operate it commercially under Part 107 without installing a Remote ID broadcast module. Under what condition can this operation still be legal?
- AThe sUAS is flown only at night with anti-collision lighting
- BThe sUAS weighs less than 0.55 pounds and is flown below 100 feet AGL
- CThe sUAS is operated exclusively within an FAA-recognized identification area (FRIA)
- DThe remote pilot holds a current Part 107 certificate and flies within visual line of sight
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The sUAS is operated exclusively within an FAA-recognized identification area (FRIA)
The Remote ID rule requires most sUAS to broadcast identification and location information unless the aircraft is flown within the boundaries of an FAA-recognized identification area (FRIA), where Remote ID broadcast is not required.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Night operation and lighting have no bearing on Remote ID requirements.
- B. Weight and altitude do not exempt an aircraft from Remote ID unless it also qualifies as a non-broadcasting exception.
- D. Holding a Part 107 certificate and flying VLOS does not exempt the aircraft from Remote ID.
Remote ID / FRIA Exception
Most sUAS must broadcast Remote ID information, but aircraft without Remote ID equipment may still fly legally within an FAA-recognized identification area (FRIA).
- Remote ID broadcasts identity, location, and control station position
- FRIA is a defined area where broadcast is not required
- Applies to community-based organizations and educational institutions
Memory trick: 'No broadcast? Stay inside the FRIA fence.'