FAA 107 Commercial Drone Pilot Practice Exam

What is the significance of the weight of 33lbs for UAS operations under the FAA regulations?

1. It determines the maximum altitude allowed

2. It qualifies the UAS as a small unmanned aircraft

3. It affects the visual line-of-sight requirements

4. It permits exemption from registration

The correct answer is: It qualifies the UAS as a small unmanned aircraft

The weight of 33 pounds holds significance in that it is the upper limit for a UAS to be classified as a small unmanned aircraft under FAA regulations. According to the FAA's definitions, any unmanned aircraft weighing less than 55 pounds is considered a small UAS (sUAS). This classification comes with specific operational rules and requirements tailored to small drones, such as pilot certification, operational parameters, and airspace use. Understanding this classification is crucial for compliance with regulations governing UAS operations, as it determines the operational framework under which the pilot must operate. For instance, pilots of sUAS are required to adhere to certain limitations, including flight altitude and the requirement for visual line-of-sight flying. In contrast, exceeding this weight means the UAS would not fall under the small UAS category and would require different regulatory considerations, potentially including manned aircraft rules or additional certifications. Therefore, the weight threshold significantly influences the legal and operational landscape for drone pilots.