A remote pilot is planning a sUAS flight near a remote airport that has no operating control tower and is located within Class G airspace. To operate legally within a half-mile of this airport, what action must the remote pilot take?
- AObtain airspace authorization from the FAA.
- BNo specific action is required, as it is Class G airspace.
- CContact the airport operator or manager prior to flight.
- DIssue a NOTAM for sUAS operations.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Contact the airport operator or manager prior to flight.
While Class G airspace generally does not require FAA authorization for sUAS operations, Part 107.43 requires a remote pilot to avoid operating a sUAS in a manner that interferes with operations at any airport, heliport, or seaplane base. For operations within a half-mile of a non-towered airport, contacting the airport operator/manager and any air traffic advisory service (like UNICOM) is best practice, though not explicitly mandated as an 'authorization', it's a critical step to ensure safety and avoid interference.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Airspace authorization is for controlled airspace (B, C, D, E surface area), not Class G.
- B. While Class G doesn't require FAA authorization, 107.43 mandates avoiding interference with airport operations, making pre-coordination a necessary safety measure.
- D. NOTAMs are issued by official aviation sources, not individual remote pilots.
Uncontrolled Airport Operations
When operating a sUAS near an uncontrolled airport, the remote pilot must ensure their operations do not interfere with manned aircraft operations at that airport.
- No FAA airspace authorization required in Class G.
- Coordination with airport management and/or UNICOM is highly recommended.
- Part 107.43 prohibits interference with airport operations.
Memory trick: Grounded Pilots Guard Gates