FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsMedium
A remote pilot is conducting a sUAS aerial inspection of a bridge over a river. During the flight, the remote pilot observes a hot air balloon approaching their operating area at approximately the same altitude. What action is required by the remote pilot?
- AIncrease altitude to pass above the balloon, maintaining visual line of sight.
- BContinue the operation, as sUAS have right-of-way over balloons.
- CManeuver the sUAS to remain clear of the balloon, as sUAS must yield to all manned aircraft.
- DMaintain course and altitude, as the balloon pilot is responsible for seeing and avoiding the sUAS.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Maneuver the sUAS to remain clear of the balloon, as sUAS must yield to all manned aircraft.
Under 14 CFR Part 107.37, small unmanned aircraft must yield the right-of-way to all aircraft, airborne vehicles, and launch and reentry vehicles. This includes hot air balloons. The remote pilot must maneuver the sUAS to ensure separation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While increasing altitude might provide separation, the primary requirement is to yield, and maintaining VLOS might be compromised. The safest action is to maneuver to remain clear.
- B. This is incorrect; sUAS must yield to all manned aircraft, including balloons.
- D. This is incorrect; the sUAS pilot has the responsibility to yield.
sUAS Right-of-Way (Balloons)
14 CFR 107.37 requires small unmanned aircraft to yield the right-of-way to all aircraft, airborne vehicles, and launch and reentry vehicles, which explicitly includes hot air balloons.
- sUAS always yields to manned aircraft.
- Balloons are considered manned aircraft.
- Remote pilot must actively maneuver to ensure separation.
Memory trick: Drones defer to balloons, giving them flight room.