FAA 107 Commercial Drone Pilot Practice Exam

What is a lost link in the context of UAS operations?

1. Loss of connection to ground control

2. Loss of navigation data

3. A structural failure of the UAS

4. Loss of battery power

The correct answer is: Loss of connection to ground control

In the context of UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) operations, a lost link specifically refers to the situation where the communications link between the UAS and the ground control station is interrupted or terminated. This can result in the UAS becoming unresponsive to commands from the pilot. The loss of this connection can occur due to various reasons such as interference, signal obstruction, or hardware failures. The system is designed to handle this scenario through various fail-safe protocols. For instance, many drones are programmed to return to a pre-defined point (usually the takeoff point) or hover in place until the connection is re-established. Understanding the implications of a lost link is crucial for safe operations and can influence the planning and execution of aerial missions. In this context, the other options refer to separate issues that can occur with a UAS. While a loss of navigation data, structural failure, or loss of battery power can each jeopardize flight safety, they do not specifically define what a lost link entails. Thus, the correct understanding of a lost link is pivotal for successful UAS operation and safety management.