FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)Airspace and Operating RequirementsHard
A remote pilot is planning a commercial flight for the next day near a wildfire that has been burning for several days. What should the pilot do to determine if the operation is legally permitted?
- ACheck for a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) NOTAM covering the wildfire area before flying
- BContact the fire department directly, since TFRs do not apply to wildfire areas
- CFly at night instead, since TFRs for wildfires only apply during daylight hours
- DAssume the flight is legal unless local news reports mention drone restrictions
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Check for a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) NOTAM covering the wildfire area before flying
The FAA commonly issues Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) via NOTAM over wildfire areas to protect firefighting aircraft. A remote pilot must check for NOTAMs before flight, and operating within an active TFR without authorization is prohibited.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The fire department has no authority over airspace restrictions; the FAA issues TFRs.
- C. Wildfire TFRs typically apply at all hours, not just daytime, due to ongoing firefighting operations.
- D. Relying on news coverage is not a reliable or required method of checking airspace restrictions.
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)
TFRs are published via NOTAM to restrict flight in a defined area, commonly for wildfires, VIP movements, or major events.
- Published as NOTAMs and must be checked before flight
- Wildfire TFRs protect firefighting aircraft operations
- Flying in an active TFR without authorization is a violation
Memory trick: 'Fire means check the wire' — check NOTAMs before flying near wildfires.