FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)Airspace and Operating RequirementsEasy
A drone operator wants to conduct commercial flights within the lateral boundaries of Class D airspace surrounding an airport that has an operating control tower. What must the operator do before flying?
- AWait until the control tower closes for the night to avoid needing authorization
- BNothing additional, since Class D airspace has no special sUAS restrictions
- CObtain ATC authorization, such as through LAANC, before conducting the operation
- DFile a flight plan with the nearest Flight Service Station
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Obtain ATC authorization, such as through LAANC, before conducting the operation
Class D airspace is controlled airspace, and Part 107 requires remote pilots to obtain ATC authorization before operating there, most commonly through the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Operating after tower hours changes the airspace to Class E or G, but the pilot cannot assume this without checking; the direct requirement is authorization while the tower is operating.
- B. Class D is controlled airspace and does require authorization, unlike Class G.
- D. Flight plans with Flight Service are not the mechanism for sUAS airspace authorization.
Controlled Airspace Authorization
Class B, C, D, and certain E surface areas require ATC authorization before sUAS operations, typically via LAANC.
- LAANC provides near real-time automated authorization for many airports
- Some areas require manual authorization through the FAA DroneZone
- Authorization specifies maximum allowable altitude in a grid
Memory trick: 'Tower Towns need Tickets' — controlled airspace needs authorization.