FAA 107 Commercial Drone Pilot Practice Exam

What is required of a visual observer during UAS operations?

1. To operate the drone autonomously

2. To help see and avoid other air traffic

3. To handle communication with ground control

4. To ensure navigation software is updated

The correct answer is: To help see and avoid other air traffic

A visual observer plays a crucial role during UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) operations by assisting the remote pilot in maintaining situational awareness and ensuring safety. The primary responsibility is to help see and avoid other aircraft and obstacles in the airspace. This involves constant monitoring of the environment surrounding the drone and alerting the pilot to any potential hazards. The nature of drone operations often requires the pilot to focus on controlling the aircraft and executing the mission. Having a visual observer allows for an additional set of eyes, which helps mitigate the risks associated with mid-air collisions or other safety concerns. The visual observer's role is therefore vital in promoting safer UAS flights and ensuring compliance with regulations requiring constant awareness of the drone's surroundings. While communication and navigation aspects are important in UAS operations, they are not the primary responsibilities of a visual observer. The observer does not operate the drone autonomously and is not typically responsible for handling communication with ground control or updating navigation software. Their focus is squarely on visual monitoring to enhance safety during flight.