A commercial sUAS operator wants to attach an external cargo package containing a small camera to their drone for an aerial photography assignment over a remote, unpopulated area. The total weight of the sUAS with the camera package is 4.5 pounds. What regulation applies to this operation?
- AA waiver from the FAA is required for any external load, regardless of weight or location.
- BThe operation is permitted under 14 CFR Part 107.36, provided the object is securely attached and does not adversely affect flight characteristics.
- CThis operation is prohibited under all circumstances by 14 CFR Part 107.
- DThe operation is permitted only if the camera is deemed 'non-essential' by the FAA.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The operation is permitted under 14 CFR Part 107.36, provided the object is securely attached and does not adversely affect flight characteristics.
14 CFR Part 107.36, 'Carriage of hazardous materials,' explicitly states that 'No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft system for compensation or hire with hazardous materials on board.' However, it also clarifies that 'An operation in which a small unmanned aircraft system carries an external load attached to the aircraft is not a hazardous material operation if the external load is not a hazardous material and is securely attached to the aircraft.' A small camera is not a hazardous material, and as long as it's securely attached and doesn't negatively impact flight, it's permitted.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A waiver is not required for non-hazardous external loads that meet the conditions of 107.36.
- C. External loads are not prohibited if they are not hazardous materials and are securely attached.
- D. The FAA does not categorize camera as 'non-essential' for the purpose of this regulation; the key is 'hazardous material' and secure attachment.
External Load Operations (107.36)
14 CFR Part 107.36 permits the carriage of external loads by sUAS for compensation or hire, provided the load is not a hazardous material, is securely attached, and does not adversely affect the aircraft's flight characteristics.
- Prohibits carriage of hazardous materials.
- Allows non-hazardous external loads.
- Load must be securely attached.
- Must not adversely affect flight characteristics or controllability.
Memory trick: External loads: 'Safe' and 'Secure', 'Say No' to 'Hazards'.