A hobby builder operates a 260-gram sUAS over a sparsely populated rural area. The aircraft has no Remote ID broadcast module, and the flight is not conducted within an FAA-Recognized Identification Area (FRIA). Under 14 CFR Part 89, this operation is:
- ACompliant, because Remote ID only applies to aircraft used for commercial Part 107 operations
- BNot compliant, because the aircraft exceeds the 250-gram registration threshold and must broadcast Remote ID unless flown within a FRIA
- CCompliant, because Remote ID rules only apply within controlled airspace
- DCompliant, because all aircraft under 0.55 pounds are exempt from Remote ID
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Not compliant, because the aircraft exceeds the 250-gram registration threshold and must broadcast Remote ID unless flown within a FRIA
Remote ID requirements under Part 89 apply to any UAS required to be registered, which includes aircraft weighing more than 250 grams (0.55 lb). Since this aircraft weighs 260 grams, it must broadcast Remote ID unless operated within a FAA-Recognized Identification Area; operating outside a FRIA without the capability is non-compliant.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Remote ID applies to recreational and commercial operations alike, not just Part 107.
- C. Remote ID applies broadly, not only within controlled airspace.
- D. The registration/Remote ID weight threshold is 250 grams, not 0.55 pounds rounded loosely; 260g exceeds it.
Remote ID Requirement (Part 89)
Requires most UAS required to be registered (generally over 250 grams) to broadcast identification and location information, unless operated within a FAA-Recognized Identification Area.
- Applies based on registration requirement, not just commercial use
- 250 grams (0.55 lb) is the key registration/Remote ID threshold
- FRIAs allow flight without Remote ID broadcast equipment
Memory trick: 'No registration, no broadcast, no flight—unless it's a FRIA.'