FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsMedium
A remote pilot is planning to use a sUAS to inspect a tall cell tower that extends to 650 feet AGL. To legally fly the sUAS at an altitude of 600 feet AGL for this inspection, what must the remote pilot do?
- AOperate within 400 feet of the tower's uppermost limit.
- BObtain a Certificate of Waiver for operations above 400 feet AGL.
- CApply for an airspace authorization for operations near a structure.
- DFly no higher than 400 feet AGL, as this is the absolute maximum altitude.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Operate within 400 feet of the tower's uppermost limit.
Part 107.51(b)(2) states that a remote pilot may operate a sUAS no higher than 400 feet above a structure, provided the sUAS remains within a 400-foot radius of the structure's uppermost limit. Since the tower is 650 feet AGL, flying at 600 feet AGL (which is 50 feet below the tower's top) is permissible as long as the sUAS stays within 400 feet horizontally of the tower.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A Certificate of Waiver is not needed if operating under the 400-foot above a structure exception.
- C. Airspace authorization is for controlled airspace, not for altitude exceptions around structures in uncontrolled airspace.
- D. The 400 feet AGL limit is the general rule, but the 400-foot above a structure exception applies here.
Structure Altitude Exception (107.51)
A remote pilot may operate a sUAS up to 400 feet above the uppermost limit of a structure, provided the sUAS remains within a 400-foot radius of that structure.
- Allows flights above 400 feet AGL near tall structures.
- Requires the sUAS to stay within 400 feet horizontally of the structure.
- Applies to structures like towers, buildings, etc.
Memory trick: 400 Above, 400 Around