FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)Airspace and Operating RequirementsEasy
A remote pilot is operating a small UAS during a high-speed aerial demonstration. Under 14 CFR 107.51, what is the maximum allowable groundspeed for the aircraft?
- A60 knots (69 mph)
- B250 knots (288 mph)
- C120 knots (138 mph)
- D87 knots (100 mph)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 87 knots (100 mph)
14 CFR 107.51(a) limits small UAS operations to a maximum groundspeed of 87 knots (100 mph). This is one of the baseline operating limitations that applies unless a waiver is obtained.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This speed is well under the regulatory limit and not the correct maximum.
- B. This is the general 250-knot speed limit for manned aircraft below 10,000 feet MSL, not the UAS limit.
- C. Exceeds the Part 107 limit; not authorized without a waiver.
Maximum Groundspeed (107.51)
The operating limitation restricting small UAS to a maximum groundspeed of 87 knots (100 mph) under standard Part 107 operations.
- 87 knots = 100 mph
- Applies unless waived
- Part of the 107.51 operating limitations package with altitude and visibility
Memory trick: '100 for the drone' — remember 100 mph as the speed ceiling.