FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsMedium
A remote pilot is conducting a sUAS flight near a location with a high concentration of radio and cellular towers. What potential hazard should the remote pilot be most concerned about?
- AIncreased air density.
- BReduced GPS signal strength.
- CTurbulence from wind shear.
- DMagnetic interference affecting the compass.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Magnetic interference affecting the compass.
Areas with strong electromagnetic fields, such as those near radio and cellular towers, can cause significant magnetic interference. This interference can disrupt the sUAS's internal compass/magnetometer, leading to issues with navigation, stability, and potentially a flyaway.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Radio and cellular towers do not increase air density.
- B. While cellular towers use radio frequencies, they typically don't directly reduce GPS signal strength from satellites, though large structures can cause signal blockage.
- C. Turbulence is caused by atmospheric conditions or terrain, not directly by radio/cellular towers.
Magnetic Interference
Electromagnetic fields from power lines, radio towers, and other sources can interfere with a sUAS's compass/magnetometer, affecting navigation and stability.
- Can cause erratic flight behavior or loss of control.
- Requires careful preflight assessment of operating environment.
- Compass calibration should be done away from interference sources.
Memory trick: Towers Twist Compasses