A commercial drone operator maintains a fleet of five sUAS used for pipeline inspections. What is the operator's obligation under Part 107 regarding maintenance and inspection of these aircraft?
- AThe operator must have an FAA-certificated mechanic perform all inspections and sign off maintenance logs
- BThe remote pilot in command must ensure the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation before each flight, following manufacturer guidance where available
- CNo inspection or maintenance is required as long as the aircraft is under 55 pounds
- DThe operator must follow a specific FAA-mandated inspection schedule identical for all sUAS models
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The remote pilot in command must ensure the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation before each flight, following manufacturer guidance where available
Part 107 does not mandate a specific FAA inspection program or certificated mechanic sign-off for most sUAS; instead, the remote PIC is responsible for ensuring the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation before flight, typically by following the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations and conducting preflight checks.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Part 107 does not require an FAA-certificated mechanic for standard sUAS maintenance.
- C. Aircraft weight does not exempt an operator from ensuring safe operating condition.
- D. There is no single FAA-mandated inspection schedule applicable to all sUAS models.
sUAS Maintenance Responsibility
Under Part 107, the remote pilot in command is responsible for ensuring the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation, generally by following manufacturer maintenance and inspection guidance rather than a certificated mechanic requirement.
- No FAA-mandated inspection program for most sUAS
- Remote PIC bears ultimate responsibility
- Manufacturer's guidance is the typical maintenance reference
- Recordkeeping is good practice though not always required by rule
Memory trick: No mechanic needed — the PIC is the guardian of airworthiness