FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsMedium
A remote pilot is conducting a sUAS aerial inspection of a bridge over a river. During the operation, a hot air balloon appears to be on a converging course at the same altitude. Who has the right-of-way?
- AThe sUAS, as it is conducting a commercial operation.
- BThe hot air balloon, as it is less maneuverable.
- CThe hot air balloon, as it is operating under visual flight rules.
- DThe sUAS, as it is a powered aircraft.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The hot air balloon, as it is less maneuverable.
According to 14 CFR Part 107.37(a), each remote pilot in command must yield the right-of-way to all aircraft, airborne vehicles, and launches and reentries. Hot air balloons are considered less maneuverable than sUAS and therefore have the right-of-way.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The nature of the operation (commercial vs. recreational) does not determine right-of-way.
- C. Both the sUAS and the hot air balloon are likely operating under VFR; this is not the determining factor for right-of-way in this scenario.
- D. The sUAS, despite being powered, must yield to all other aircraft, including balloons.
sUAS Right-of-Way
The regulatory requirement for a small unmanned aircraft to yield to all other aircraft, airborne vehicles, launches, and reentries.
- sUAS always yields
- Yields to manned aircraft, balloons, gliders
- Part of 14 CFR 107.37(a)
Memory trick: Drone 'ALWAYS Yields' to 'Bigger, Slower, Higher' things.