FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)Airspace and Operating RequirementsMedium
During a commercial UAS flight, a remote pilot experiences a sudden and unexpected loss of GPS signal near a busy road and must deviate from a Part 107 operating rule to avoid a collision hazard. What does 14 CFR 107.21 permit in this situation?
- AThe pilot must land the aircraft immediately regardless of hazards below.
- BThe pilot may deviate only after receiving verbal approval from air traffic control.
- CEmergency deviations are not authorized under Part 107; only manned aircraft pilots may deviate under 14 CFR 91.3.
- DThe pilot may deviate from any rule of Part 107 to the extent necessary to meet that emergency.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. The pilot may deviate from any rule of Part 107 to the extent necessary to meet that emergency.
14 CFR 107.21 allows the remote pilot in command to deviate from any rule of Part 107 to the extent necessary to respond to an in-flight emergency. If requested by the FAA, the remote pilot must submit a written report of the deviation within 10 days.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Immediate landing may not be the safest action; the rule allows judgment-based deviation, not a forced landing.
- B. No prior ATC approval is required to exercise emergency authority.
- C. Part 107 has its own emergency authority provision independent of 91.3.
Emergency Deviation Authority (107.21)
A Part 107 provision allowing the remote pilot in command to deviate from any operating rule to the extent necessary to respond to an in-flight emergency.
- Mirrors 14 CFR 91.3 for manned aircraft
- No prior FAA/ATC approval required
- Written report may be requested within 10 days
- Applies to any Part 107 rule, not just airspace rules
Memory trick: 'Break the rule, save the day, report it later.'