FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsHard
A commercial operator wants to fly a sUAS beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) for a pipeline inspection, an operation not otherwise allowed under 14 CFR Part 107. What must the operator do to legally conduct this flight?
- ASimply add a second visual observer positioned along the flight path
- BObtain verbal permission from local air traffic control before each flight
- CApply for and receive a certificate of waiver under 107.200 demonstrating an equivalent level of safety
- DFile a NOTAM at least 24 hours in advance and proceed with the flight
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Apply for and receive a certificate of waiver under 107.200 demonstrating an equivalent level of safety
Operations that do not comply with certain Part 107 provisions, such as the visual-line-of-sight requirement in 107.31, require a certificate of waiver under 107.200. The applicant must show that the proposed operation can be safely conducted using alternative methods that provide an equivalent level of safety.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Adding observers does not by itself satisfy the visual-line-of-sight regulation without a waiver.
- B. ATC verbal permission does not substitute for an FAA waiver.
- D. A NOTAM does not authorize a rule deviation; it only informs other airspace users.
Certificate of Waiver (107.200)
A waiver granted by the FAA that allows a sUAS operation to deviate from certain Part 107 provisions if the applicant demonstrates the operation can be conducted safely.
- Required for BVLOS, night ops without proper waiver categories, or other rule deviations
- Applicant must show equivalent level of safety
- Submitted through FAA DroneZone
Memory trick: 'Waive the rule, prove it's cool (safe).'