FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)RegulationsMedium
A remote pilot in command took a prescription sedative that causes significant drowsiness four hours before a scheduled commercial mapping flight. Under 14 CFR 107.17, what is the pilot required to do?
- AFly as planned, since sUAS operations do not require an FAA medical certificate
- BOperate only above 200 feet AGL to reduce risk to people on the ground
- CNot operate the sUAS if a known physical or mental condition would interfere with safe operation
- DWait exactly eight hours, matching the alcohol rule in 107.27
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Not operate the sUAS if a known physical or mental condition would interfere with safe operation
14 CFR 107.17 prohibits a person from manipulating the flight controls or acting as a remote PIC if they know or have reason to know they have a physical or mental condition that would interfere with the safe operation of the sUAS. There is no fixed time limit like the alcohol rule and no medical certificate is required, but impairment still grounds the pilot.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. No medical certificate is required, but impairment from medication is still prohibited.
- B. Altitude does not mitigate impairment risk under this rule.
- D. 107.17 has no specific numeric wait time; that time limit applies to alcohol under 107.27.
Physical/Mental Condition (107.17)
Prohibits a person from acting as RPIC or manipulating sUAS controls while they know or have reason to know of a condition that would interfere with safe operation.
- No FAA medical certificate required for Part 107
- Applies to illness, medication, or fatigue
- Mirrors the manned-aircraft standard in 61.53
Memory trick: 'Groggy pilot, grounded drone.'