FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)Airspace and Operating RequirementsMedium
A remote pilot wants to operate near a small non-towered airport within Class E airspace that does not extend to the surface (Class G below 700 feet AGL near the airport). Which statement is true regarding operating authorization?
- ANo airspace authorization is required for the Class G portion below 700 feet AGL near this airport
- BThe pilot must contact the nearest Flight Service Station for clearance before flight
- CThe pilot must still request LAANC authorization since Class E is technically controlled airspace
- DAuthorization is required only if the airport has published instrument approach procedures
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. No airspace authorization is required for the Class G portion below 700 feet AGL near this airport
Class E airspace that begins at 700 feet AGL (rather than extending to the surface) leaves the airspace below it as Class G, uncontrolled airspace where no ATC/LAANC authorization is required for sUAS operations, though pilots should still watch for traffic patterns.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Flight Service Stations do not issue sUAS airspace clearances.
- C. Class E airspace beginning at 700 feet AGL does not require authorization for operations below that floor.
- D. Instrument approach procedures relate to the airspace design but do not create an authorization requirement below the Class E floor.
Class E Airspace Floors
Class E airspace can begin at the surface, 700 feet AGL, or 1,200 feet AGL depending on the location; airspace beneath the Class E floor is Class G and does not require authorization for sUAS operations.
- 700 ft AGL floor shown by fading magenta shading on sectional
- Airspace below the floor is uncontrolled Class G
- No authorization required in Class G portion
Memory trick: Fading magenta = floor at 700, below that it's free (Class G).