A remote pilot is conducting a sUAS aerial survey for a construction project. The sUAS is operating at an altitude of 300 feet above ground level (AGL). What is the maximum horizontal distance the remote pilot can legally operate the sUAS from the control station without a waiver?
- A1,500 feet.
- B3,000 feet.
- C2,000 feet.
- D2,500 feet.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 3,000 feet.
Part 107.31 requires the remote pilot in command, visual observer, and person manipulating the flight controls to be able to see the sUAS without enhancement. While no specific horizontal distance is stated, the 400-foot AGL altitude limit (or 400 feet above a structure) implies a maximum horizontal distance of approximately 3,000 feet (0.5 statute miles, which is 2,640 feet) while maintaining visual line of sight without enhancement for a sUAS at 400 feet AGL. At 300 feet AGL, a horizontal distance of 3,000 feet is still generally considered within VLOS range under typical conditions.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Too restrictive; visual line of sight typically extends further.
- C. Still too restrictive; visual line of sight typically extends further.
- D. Still too restrictive for a sUAS at 300 feet AGL under good conditions.
Visual Line of Sight (107.31)
The remote pilot in command, visual observer, or person manipulating the flight controls must be able to see the small unmanned aircraft continuously and unaided throughout the entire flight.
- Unaided vision (no binoculars, telescopes, etc.).
- Continuously able to see the sUAS's location, attitude, altitude, and direction of flight.
- No explicit horizontal distance, but practical limits apply based on sUAS size and visibility.
Memory trick: Eyes On Drone, Don't Roam