FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)Airspace and Operating RequirementsEasy
A remote pilot arrives at a small airport with no operating control tower to conduct aerial photography flights nearby. Which statement best describes the pilot's obligation under Part 107 regarding other traffic at this airport?
- ANo special obligation exists because non-towered airports have no other traffic to consider
- BThe pilot must obtain ATC authorization before flying near any airport, towered or not
- CThe pilot may fly anywhere near the airport as long as the flight stays below 100 feet AGL
- DThe pilot must yield right of way to and avoid interfering with manned aircraft operating in the traffic pattern
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. The pilot must yield right of way to and avoid interfering with manned aircraft operating in the traffic pattern
Even without a control tower, manned aircraft may be operating in the traffic pattern at a non-towered airport. Part 107 requires the remote pilot to yield right of way and avoid interfering with these operations, since Class G airspace does not require ATC authorization but still requires collision avoidance.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Non-towered airports often have significant manned traffic, especially in the pattern.
- B. ATC authorization is only required for controlled airspace, not all airports.
- C. Altitude alone does not eliminate the risk of interfering with traffic pattern operations.
Operations Near Non-Towered Airports
sUAS pilots must remain vigilant and yield to manned traffic pattern operations even without ATC control at an airport.
- Class G airspace surrounds many non-towered airports
- No ATC authorization required, but right-of-way rules still apply
- Pilots should be extra cautious of traffic pattern altitudes and paths
Memory trick: 'No tower, still power' — right-of-way rules still apply.