sUAS Sample Exam 2017-06-12
Date effective: June 12, 2017 The following sample exam for Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) is suitable study material for the Remote Pilot Certificate with a small UAS Rating. These questions are a representation of questions that can be found on all Unmanned Aircraft General tests. The applicant must realize that these questions are to be used as a study guide, and are not necessarily actual test questions. The full UAG test contains 60 questions.
Matching the learning statement codes with the codes listed on your Airman Knowledge Test Report assists in the evaluation of knowledge areas missed on your exam. It is available at http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/media/LearningStatementReferenceGuide.pdf.
To see the answer, highlight the area next to the — as if you were going to copy it.
Sample UAG Exam with ACS Codes:
1. PLT064 UA.V.B.K6a (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 21.) What airport is located approximately 47 (degrees) 40 (minutes) N latitude and 101 (degrees) 26 (minutes) W longitude?
A) Mercer County Regional Airport.
B) Semshenko Airport.
C) Garrison Airport.
—C
Aeronautical Chart Users Guide 12th Edition A quadrant on Sectionals is the area bounded by ticked lines dividing each 30 minutes of latitude and each 30 minutes of longitude. On the chart we see 48° North, so the line of latitude below it is 47° 30′. We also see 101° longitude on the chart so the quadrant containing the red-circled 2 must be the one containing the airport. Each of the long hash marks is 10′ so if we count up from 47° 30′ by one hash mark, we are just above the Lake Nettie Refuge. Count over from the 101° longitude line and we are near the power plant. Garrison is the airport near those coordinates. If we look up Garrison in the Chart Supplement we can verify that its coordinates are N47°39.36′ W101°26.21′.
2. PLT064 UA.V.B.K6a (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 26.) What does the line of latitude at area 4 measure?
A) The degrees of latitude east and west of the Prime Meridian.
B) The degrees of latitude north and south of the equator.
C) The degrees of latitude east and west of the line that passes through Greenwich, England.
—B
Remote Pilot Study Guide Latitude and Longitude (Meridians and Parallels) The equator is an imaginary circle equidistant from the poles of the Earth. Circles parallel to the equator (lines running east and west) are parallels of latitude. They are used to measure degrees of latitude north (N) or south (S) of the equator. The angular distance from the equator to the pole is one-fourth of a circle or 90°. The 48 conterminous states of the United States are located between 25° and 49° N latitude. The arrows in Figure 11-3 labeled “Latitude” point to lines of latitude. Meridians of longitude are drawn from the North Pole to the South Pole and are at right angles to the Equator. The “Prime Meridian,” which passes through Greenwich, England, is used as the zero line from which measurements are made in degrees east (E) and west (W) to 180°. The 48 conterminous states of the United States are between 67° and 125° W longitude.
3. PLT040 UA.II.A.K1b (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 23, area 3.) What is the floor of the Savannah Class C airspace at the shelf area (outer circle)?
A) 1,300 feet AGL.
B) 1,300 feet MSL.
C) 1,700 feet MSL.
—B
Aeronautical Chart Users Guide 12th Edition The MSL ceiling and floor altitudes of each sector are shown in solid magenta figures with the last two zeros omitted. Savannah is on the lower left of the chart and the outer ring is labeled 41/13 so the floor is 1,300′ MSL.
4. PLT064 UA.II.A.K2 (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 59, area 2.) The chart shows a gray line with “VR1667, VR1617, VR1638, and VR1668.” Could this area present a hazard to the operations of a small UA?
A) No, all operations will be above 400 feet.
B) Yes, this is a Military Training Route from the surface to 1,500 feet AGL.
C) Yes, the defined route provides traffic separation to manned aircraft.
—B
Aeronautical Chart Users Guide 12th Edition MTRs are identified by designators (IR-107, VR-134) which are shown in brown on the route centerline. Arrows are shown to indicate the direction of ight along the route. The width of the route determines the width of the line that is plotted on the chart:
There are IFR (IR) and VFR (VR) routes as follows: Route identification:
a. Routes at or below 1500’ AGL (with no segment above 1500’) are identified by four-digit numbers; e.g., VR1007, etc. These routes are generally developed for flight under Visual Flight Rules.
b. Routes above 1500’ AGL (some segments of these routes may be below 1500’) are identified by three or fewer digit numbers; e.g., IR21, VR302, etc. These routes are developed for flight under Instrument Flight Rules.
5. PLT161 UA.II.A.K1b According to 14 CFR part 107 the remote pilot in command (PIC) of a small unmanned aircraft planning to operate within Class C airspace
A) must use a visual observer.
B) is required to file a flight plan.
C) is required to receive ATC authorization.
—C
CFR §107.41 Operation in certain airspace.
No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft in Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport unless that person has prior authorization from Air Traffic Control (ATC).
6. PLT064 UA.II.A.K2 (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 21.) You have been hired by a farmer to use your small UA to inspect his crops. The area that you are to survey is in the Devil’s Lake West MOA, east of area 2. How would you find out if the MOA is active?
A) Refer to the chart legend.
B) This information is available in the Small UAS database.
C) Refer to the Military Operations Directory.
—A
Aeronautical Chart Users Guide 12th Edition CHART TABULATIONS Special Use Airspace (SUA): Prohibited, Restricted and Warning Areas are presented in blue and listed numerically for U.S. and other countries. Restricted, Danger and Advisory Areas outside the U.S. are tabulated separately in blue. A tabulation of Alert Areas (listed numerically) and Military Operations Areas (MOA) (listed alphabetically) appear on the chart in magenta. All are supplemented with altitude, time of use and the controlling agency/contact facility, and its frequency when available. The controlling agency will be shown when the contact facility and frequency data is unavailable.
7. PLT037 UA.II.B.K5 (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 20, area 5.) How would a remote PIC “CHECK NOTAMS” as noted in the CAUTION box regarding the unmarked balloon?
A) By utilizing the B4UFLY mobile application.
B) By contacting the FAA district office.
C) By obtaining a briefing via an online source such as: 1800WXBrief.com.
—C
Remote Pilot Study Guide NOTAMs are available… online at PilotWeb, which provides access to current NOTAM information. Local airport NOTAMs can be obtained online from various websites.
AIM 5−1−1. Preflight Preparation
a. Every pilot is urged to receive a preflight briefing and to file a flight plan. This briefing should consist of the latest or most current weather, airport, and en route NAVAID information.
d. FSSs are required to advise of pertinent NOTAMs if a standard briefing is requested, but if they are overlooked, don’t hesitate to remind the specialist that you have not received NOTAM information.
Lockheed Martin Flight Services
Internet Access: http://www.1800wxbrief.com For customer service: (866) 936−6826
AC 107-2 Notices to Airmen (NOTAM). Information on how to obtain NOTAMs can be found at PilotWeb.
8. PLT313 UA.IV.A.K1b To ensure that the unmanned aircraft center of gravity (CG) limits are not exceeded, follow the aircraft loading instructions specified in the
A) Pilot`s Operating Handbook or UAS Flight Manual.
B) Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM).
C) Aircraft Weight and Balance Handbook.
—A
Remote Pilot Study Guide Adverse balance conditions (i.e., weight distribution) may affect flight characteristics in much the same manner as those mentioned for an excess weight condition. Limits for the location of the center of gravity (CG) may be established by the manufacturer.
From the course materials, As with any aircraft, compliance with weight and balance limits is critical to the safety of flight for a small UAS. An unmanned aircraft that is loaded out of balance may exhibit unexpected and unsafe flight characteristics.
Before any flight, verify that the unmanned aircraft is correctly loaded by determining the weight and balance condition.
Review any available manufacturer weight and balance data and follow all warnings, cautions, notes, and limitations.
If the manufacturer does not provide specific weight and balance data, apply general weight and balance principals to determine limits for a given flight. For example, add weight to the unmanned aircraft in a manner that does not adversely affect the aircraft’s center of gravity (CG) location—a point at which the unmanned aircraft would balance if it were suspended at that point.
From AC 107-2 1. Weight and Balance (W&B).
Before any flight, the remote PIC should verify the aircraft is correctly loaded by determining the W&B condition of the aircraft. An aircraft’s W&B restrictions established by the manufacturer or the builder should be closely followed. Compliance with the manufacturer’s W&B limits is critical to flight safety. The remote PIC must consider the consequences of an overweight aircraft if an emergency condition arises.
9. PLT310 UA.IV.A.K1a When operating an unmanned airplane, the remote pilot should consider that the load factor on the wings may be increased any time
A) the CG is shifted rearward to the aft CG limit.
B) the airplane is subjected to maneuvers other than straight-and-level flight.
C) the gross weight is reduced.
—B
The Remote Pilot Study Guide Chapter 4 Load Factors in Steep Turns has a detailed description of how the load factor is affected by turns.
FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, Chapter 5 Critical load factors apply to all flight maneuvers except unaccelerated straight flight where a load factor of 1 G is always present.
10. PLT312 UA.IV.A.K1b A stall occurs when the smooth airflow over the unmanned airplane`s wing is disrupted and the lift degenerates rapidly. This is caused when the wing
A) exceeds the maximum speed.
B) exceeds maximum allowable operating weight.
C) exceeds its critical angle of attack.
—C
FAA-H-8083-3, Airplane Flying Handbook, Chapter 4 A stall is an aerodynamic condition which occurs when smooth airflow over the airplane’s wings is disrupted, resulting in loss of lift. Specifically, a stall occurs when the AOA—the angle between the chord line of the wing and the relative wind—exceeds the wing’s critical AOA. It is possible to exceed the critical AOA at any airspeed, at any attitude, and at any power setting.
11. PLT309 UA.IV.A.K1a (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 2.) If an unmanned airplane weighs 33 pounds, what approximate weight would the airplane structure be required to support during a 30° banked turn while maintaining altitude?
A) 34 pounds.
B) 47 pounds.
C) 38 pounds.
—C
This figure is taken from Remote Pilot Study Guide Chapter 4 Load Factors in Steep Turns and is also found in FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, Chapter 5 Load Factors and Stalling Speeds. We can see from the chart that the load factor increase is small, on the side of the chart we see that it is 1.154. Multiply the load factor by the original weight to get 38 lbs.
12. PLT205 UA.V.E.K2 Which is true regarding the presence of alcohol within the human body?
A) A small amount of alcohol increases vision acuity.
B) Consuming an equal amount of water will increase the destruction of alcohol and alleviate a hangover.
C) Judgment and decision-making abilities can be adversely affected by even small amounts of alcohol.
—C
Remote Pilot Study Guide Alcohol impairs the efficiency of the human body. Studies have shown that consuming alcohol is closely linked to performance deterioration. Pilots must make hundreds of decisions, some of them time-critical, during the course of a flight. The safe outcome of any flight depends on the ability to make the correct decisions and take the appropriate actions during routine occurrences, as well as abnormal situations. The influence of alcohol drastically reduces the chances of completing a flight without incident. Even in small amounts, alcohol can impair judgment, decrease sense of responsibility, affect coordination, constrict visual field, diminish memory, reduce reasoning ability, and lower attention span. As little as one ounce of alcohol can decrease the speed and strength of muscular reflexes, lessen the efficiency of eye movements while reading, and increase the frequency at which errors are committed. Impairments in vision and hearing can occur from consuming as little as one drink.
AC 107-2 It is the remote PIC’s responsibility to ensure all crewmembers are not participating in the operation while impaired. While drug and alcohol use are known to impair judgment, certain over-the-counter medications and medical conditions could also affect the ability to safely operate a small UA.
13. PLT441 UA.V.C.K1 When using a small UA in a commercial operation, who is responsible for briefing the participants about emergency procedures?
A) The FAA inspector-in-charge.
B) The lead visual observer.
C) The remote PIC.
—C
CFR §107.49 Preflight familiarization, inspection, and actions for aircraft operation.
Prior to flight, the remote pilot in command must:
(b) Ensure that all persons directly participating in the small unmanned aircraft operation are informed about the operating conditions, emergency procedures, contingency procedures, roles and responsibilities, and potential hazards;
14. PLT403 UA.V.C.K1 To avoid a possible collision with a manned airplane, you estimate that your small UA climbed to an altitude greater than 600 feet AGL. To whom must you report the deviation?
A) Air Traffic Control.
B) The National Transportation Safety Board.
C) Upon request of the Federal Aviation Administration.
—C
CFR §107.21 In-flight emergency.
(b) Each remote pilot in command who deviates from a rule under paragraph (a) of this section must, upon request of the Administrator, send a written report of that deviation to the Administrator.
15. PLT146 UA.V.A.K3 (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 26, area 2.) While monitoring the Cooperstown CTAF you hear an aircraft announce that they are midfield left downwind to RWY 13. Where would the aircraft be relative to the runway?
A) The aircraft is East.
B) The aircraft is South.
C) The aircraft is West.
—A
Runways are depicted on the charts in a blue or magenta circle. The orientation of the white line is the orientation of the runway with respect to true north. AIM 2-3-3 Runway Designators. Runway numbers and letters are determined from the approach direction. The runway number is the whole number nearest one-tenth the magnetic azimuth of the centerline of the runway, measured clockwise from the magnetic north. So depending on the magnetic deviation, there might be a difference in the orientation on the chart versus the name. In this case, there is one runway. The runway oriented northwest to southeast is RWY 13. Refer to AIM FIG 4−3−2 Traffic Pattern Operations Single Runway for a description of the labels of a traffic pattern. An aircraft on the left downwind would be to the East of the runway.
16. PLT446 UA.V.F.K1 Under what condition should the operator of a small UA establish scheduled maintenance protocol?
A) When the manufacturer does not provide a maintenance schedule.
B) UAS does not need a required maintenance schedule.
C) When the FAA requires you to, following an accident.
—A
AC 107-2 7.2 Maintenance. sUAS maintenance includes scheduled and unscheduled overhaul, repair, inspection, modification, replacement, and system software upgrades of the sUAS and its components necessary for flight. Whenever possible, the operator should maintain the sUAS and its components in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. The aircraft manufacturer may provide the maintenance program, or, if one is not provided, the applicant may choose to develop one.
17. PLT372 UA.V.F.K2 According to 14 CFR part 107, the responsibility to inspect the small UAS to ensure it is in a safe operating condition rests with the
A) remote pilot-in-command.
B) visual observer.
C) owner of the small UAS.
—A
CFR §107.15 Condition for safe operation.
(a) No person may operate a civil small unmanned aircraft system unless it is in a condition for safe operation. Prior to each flight, the remote pilot in command must check the small unmanned aircraft system to determine whether it is in a condition for safe operation.
18. PLT103 UA.V.D.K4 Identify the hazardous attitude or characteristic a remote pilot displays while taking risks in order to impress others?
A) Impulsivity.
B) Invulnerability.
C) Macho.
—B
Remote Pilot Study Guide Figure 10-2 and FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, Figure 2-4 The five hazardous attitudes identified through past and contemporary study. Invulnerability “It won’t happen to me.” Many people falsely believe that accidents happen to others, but never to them. They know accidents can happen, and they know that anyone can be affected. However, they never really feel or believe that they will be personally involved. Pilots who think this way are more likely to take chances and increase risk.
19. PLT272 UA.V.E.K5 You are a remote pilot for a co-op energy service provider. You are to use your UA to inspect power lines in a remote area 15 hours away from your home office. After the drive, fatigue impacts your abilities to complete your assignment on time. Fatigue can be recognized
A) easily by an experienced pilot.
B) as being in an impaired state.
C) by an ability to overcome sleep deprivation.
—B
Remote Pilot Study Guide Fatigue is frequently associated with pilot error. Some of the effects of fatigue include degradation of attention and concentration, impaired coordination, and decreased ability to communicate. These factors seriously influence the ability to make effective decisions.
Remote Pilot Study Guide Fatigue continues to be one of the most insidious hazards to flight safety, as it may not be apparent to a pilot until serious errors are made.
FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Exhaustion Pilots who become fatigued during a night flight will not be mentally alert and will respond more slowly to situations requiring immediate action. Exhausted pilots tend to concentrate on one aspect of a situation without considering the total requirement. Their performance may become a safety hazard depending on the degree of fatigue and instead of using proper scanning techniques may get fixated on the instruments or stare off rather than multitask.
20. PLT104 UA.V.D.K1 Safety is an important element for a remote pilot to consider prior to operating an unmanned aircraft system. To prevent the final “link” in the accident chain, a remote pilot must consider which methodology?
A) Crew Resource Management.
B) Safety Management System.
C) Risk Management.
—A
The answer to this question is most likely A. Risk Assessment is a term that is used in AC 107-2 but Risk Management is not mentioned. Safety Management System is a term that the FAA uses in relation to airports, but not pilots. Crew Resource Management is mentioned in the FAR as one of the areas tested in the Knowledge Test so it is probably the answer.
21. PLT104 UA.V.D.K2 When adapting crew resource management (CRM) concepts to the operation of a small UA, CRM must be integrated into
A) the flight portion only.
B) all phases of the operation.
C) the communications only.
—B
AC 107-2 A.2.5 A characteristic of CRM is creating an environment where open communication is encouraged and expected, and involves the entire crew to maximize team performance. Many of the same resources that are available to manned aircraft operations are available to UAS operations. For example, remote PICs can take advantage of traditional CRM. These crewmembers can provide information about traffic, airspace, weather, equipment, and aircraft loading and performance.
22. PLT103 UA.V.D.K4 You have been hired as a remote pilot by a local TV news station to film breaking news with a small UA. You expressed a safety concern and the station manager has instructed you to `fly first, ask questions later.` What type of hazardous attitude does this attitude represent?
A) Machismo.
B) Invulnerability.
C) Impulsivity.
—B
Remote Pilot Study Guide Figure 10-2 and FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, Figure 2-4 The five hazardous attitudes identified through past and contemporary study. Impulsivity “Do it quickly.” This is the attitude of people who frequently feel the need to do something, anything, immediately. They do not stop to think about what they are about to do, they do not select the best alternative, and they do the first thing that comes to mind.
23. PLT271 UA.V.D.K1 A local TV station has hired a remote pilot to operate their small UA to cover news stories. The remote pilot has had multiple near misses with obstacles on the ground and two small UAS accidents. What would be a solution for the news station to improve their operating safety culture?
A) The news station should implement a policy of no more than five crashes/incidents within 6 months.
B) The news station does not need to make any changes; there are times that an accident is unavoidable.
C) The news station should recognize hazardous attitudes and situations and develop standard operating procedures that emphasize safety.
—C
Remote Pilot Study Guide During each flight, the single pilot makes many decisions under hazardous conditions. To fly safely, the pilot needs to assess the degree of risk and determine the best course of action to mitigate the risk.
FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, Chapter 2 Aeronautical Decision Making Being fit to fly depends on more than just a pilot’s physical condition and recent experience. For example, attitude affects the quality of decisions. Attitude is a motivational predisposition to respond to people, situations, or events in a given manner.
It is not clear from the question whether the incidents are due to hazardous attitudes, lack of skill, or a combination of both. In any case, the remote pilot in command has not adequately assessed the risk of flying in these situations.
24. PLT064 UA.V.B.K6a (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 22, area 2.) At Coeur D`Alene which frequency should be used as a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to monitor airport traffic?
A) 122.05 MHz.
B) 135.075 MHz.
C) 122.8 MHz.
—C
Aeronautical Chart Users Guide 12th Edition A ‘C’ in a dark circle follows the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF). In this case it shows 122.8.
You could also purchase or download a copy of the Chart Supplement for your area. Remote Pilot Study Guide The Chart Supplement U.S. (formerly Airport/Facility Directory) provides the most comprehensive information on a given airport. It contains information on airports, heliports, and seaplane bases that are open to the public.
25. PLT101 UA.V.B.K6a (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 26, area 4.) You have been hired to inspect the tower under construction at 46.9N and 98.6W, near Jamestown Regional (JMS). What must you receive prior to flying your unmanned aircraft in this area?
A) Authorization from the military.
B) Authorization from ATC.
C) Authorization from the National Park Service.
—B
This is an odd way of writing the coordinates of the tower, but if we assume that they mean N46°54″ W98°36″ then it lies in the airspace for JMS and according to CFR §107.41 Operation in certain airspace. No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft in Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport unless that person has prior authorization from Air Traffic Control (ATC).
26. PLT064 UA.V.B.K6a (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 20, area 3.) With ATC authorization, you are operating your small unmanned aircraft approximately 4 SM southeast of Elizabeth City Regional Airport (ECG). What hazard is indicated to be in that area?
A) High density military operations in the vicinity.
B) Unmarked balloon on a cable up to 3,008 feet AGL.
C) Unmarked balloon on a cable up to 3,008 feet MSL.
—C
The charted box clearly indicates that there is an unmarked balloon up to 3,008 feet MSL.
27. PLT281 UA.V.B.K6b The most comprehensive information on a given airport is provided by
A) the Chart Supplements U.S. (formerly Airport Facility Directory).
B) Notices to Airmen (NOTAMS).
C) Terminal Area Chart (TAC).
—A
Remote Pilot Study Guide The Chart Supplement U.S. (formerly Airport/Facility Directory) provides the most comprehensive information on a given airport. It contains information on airports, heliports, and seaplane bases that are open to the public.
28. PLT454 UA.I.B.K20 According to 14 CFR part 107, who is responsible for determining the performance of a small unmanned aircraft?
A) Remote pilot-in-command.
B) Manufacturer.
C) Owner or operator.
—A
CFR §107.15 Condition for safe operation.
(a) No person may operate a civil small unmanned aircraft system unless it is in a condition for safe operation. Prior to each flight, the remote pilot in command must check the small unmanned aircraft system to determine whether it is in a condition for safe operation.
29. PLT194 UA.I.B.K14a Which technique should a remote pilot use to scan for traffic? A remote pilot should
A) systematically focus on different segments of the sky for short intervals.
B) concentrate on relative movement detected in the peripheral vision area.
C) continuously scan the sky from right to left.
—A
Remote Pilot Study Guide To scan effectively, pilots must look from right to left or left to right. They should begin scanning at the greatest distance an object can be perceived (top) and move inward toward the position of the aircraft (bottom). For each stop, an area approximately 30° wide should be scanned. The duration of each stop is based on the degree of detail that is required, but no stop should last longer than 2 to 3 seconds. When moving from one viewing point to the next, pilots should overlap the previous field of view by 10°.
FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Effective scanning is accomplished with a series of short, regularly spaced eye movements that bring successive areas of the sky into the central visual field. Each movement should not exceed 10°, and each should be observed for at least 1 second to enable detection. Although back and forth eye movements seem preferred by most pilots, each pilot should develop a scanning pattern that is most comfortable and then adhere to it to assure optimum scanning.
30. PLT530 UA.I.B.K1 Under what condition would a small UA not have to be registered before it is operated in the United States?
A) When the aircraft weighs less than .55 pounds on takeoff, including everything that is on-board or attached to the aircraft.
B) When the aircraft has a takeoff weight that is more than .55 pounds, but less than 55 pounds, not including fuel and necessary attachments.
C) All small UAS need to be registered regardless of the weight of the aircraft before, during, or after the flight.
—A
You need to register your aircraft if it weighs between 0.55 lbs. (250 grams) and up to 55 lbs. (25 kg) and you are not flying under the Special Rule for Model Aircraft. Register My sUAS
The lower limit is contained in CFR §48.15 Requirement to register. CFR §48.15 Requirement to register.
No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft that is eligible for registration under 49 U.S.C. 44101-44103 unless one of the following criteria has been satisfied:
(a) The owner has registered and marked the aircraft in accordance with this part;
(b) The aircraft weighs 0.55 pounds or less on takeoff, including everything that is on board or otherwise attached to the aircraft;
The upper limit is defined by a combination of FARs.
CFR §107.3 Definitions.
Small unmanned aircraft means an unmanned aircraft weighing less than 55 pounds on takeoff, including everything that is on board or otherwise attached to the aircraft.
and
CFR §48.5 Compliance dates.
a) Small unmanned aircraft used exclusively as model aircraft.… (b) Small unmanned aircraft used as other than model aircraft. Small unmanned aircraft owners authorized to conduct operations other than model aircraft operations must register the small unmanned aircraft in accordance with part 47 of this chapter…
31. PLT530 UA.I.B.K1 According to 14 CFR part 48, when must a person register a small UA with the Federal Aviation Administration?
A) All civilian small UAs weighing greater than .55 pounds must be registered regardless of its intended use.
B) When the small UA is used for any purpose other than as a model aircraft.
C) Only when the operator will be paid for commercial services.
—A
CFR §48.15 Requirement to register.
No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft that is eligible for registration under 49 U.S.C. 44101-44103 unless one of the following criteria has been satisfied:
(a) The owner has registered and marked the aircraft in accordance with this part;
(b) The aircraft weighs 0.55 pounds or less on takeoff, including everything that is on board or otherwise attached to the aircraft; or
(c) The aircraft is an aircraft of the Armed Forces of the United States.
32. PLT530 UA.I.B.K1 According to 14 CFR part 48, when would a small UA owner not be permitted to register it?
A) If the owner is less than 13 years of age.
B) All persons must register their small UA.
C) If the owner does not have a valid United States driver`s license.
—A
CFR §48.25 Applicants.
(b) A small unmanned aircraft must be registered by its owner using the legal name of its owner, unless the owner is less than 13 years of age. If the owner is less than 13 years of age, then the small unmanned aircraft must be registered by a person who is at least 13 years of age.
33. PLT161 UA.I.B.K16 According to 14 CFR part 107, how may a remote pilot operate an unmanned aircraft in Class C airspace?
A) The remote pilot must have prior authorization from the Air Traffic Control (ATC) facility having jurisdiction over that airspace.
B) The remote pilot must monitor the Air Traffic Control (ATC) frequency from launch to recovery.
C) The remote pilot must contact the Air Traffic Control (ATC) facility after launching the unmanned aircraft.
—A
CFR §107.41 Operation in certain airspace.
No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft in Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport unless that person has prior authorization from Air Traffic Control (ATC).
34. PLT119 UA.I.B.K9 According to 14 CFR part 107, what is required to operate a small UA within 30 minutes after official sunset?
A) Use of anti-collision lights.
B) Must be operated in a rural area.
C) Use of a transponder.
—A
CFR §1
Night means the time between the end of evening civil twilight and the beginning of morning civil twilight, as published in the Air Almanac, converted to local time.
CFR §107.29 Daylight operation.
(a) No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft system during night.
(b) No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft system during periods of civil twilight unless the small unmanned aircraft has lighted anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles. The remote pilot in command may reduce the intensity of the anti-collision lighting if he or she determines that, because of operating conditions, it would be in the interest of safety to do so.
Note that civil twilight is about a half hour after sunset and before sunrise so anti-collision lights are required if operating in that period.
35. PLT301 UA.III.B.K1j You have received an outlook briefing from flight service through 1800wxbrief.com. The briefing indicates you can expect a low-level temperature inversion with high relative humidity. What weather conditions would you expect?
A) Smooth air, poor visibility, fog, haze, or low clouds.
B) Light wind shear, poor visibility, haze, and light rain.
C) Turbulent air, poor visibility, fog, low stratus type clouds, and showery precipitation.
—A
Remote Pilot Study Guide When the temperature of the air rises with altitude, a temperature inversion exists. Inversion layers are commonly shallow layers of smooth, stable air close to the ground. The temperature of the air increases with altitude to a certain point, which is the top of the inversion. The air at the top of the layer acts as a lid, keeping weather and pollutants trapped below. If the relative humidity of the air is high, it can contribute to the formation of clouds, fog, haze, or smoke resulting in diminished visibility in the inversion layer.
FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Inversion As air rises and expands in the atmosphere, the temperature decreases. There is an atmospheric anomaly that can occur; however, that changes this typical pattern of atmospheric behavior. When the temperature of the air rises with altitude, a temperature inversion exists. Inversion layers are commonly shallow layers of smooth, stable air close to the ground. The temperature of the air increases with altitude to a certain point, which is the top of the inversion. The air at the top of the layer acts as a lid, keeping weather and pollutants trapped below. If the relative humidity of the air is high, it can contribute to the formation of clouds, fog, haze, or smoke resulting in diminished visibility in the inversion layer.
36. PLT351 UA.III.B.K1a What effect does high density altitude have on the efficiency of a UA propeller?
A) Propeller efficiency is increased.
B) Propeller efficiency is decreased.
C) Density altitude does not affect propeller efficiency.
—B
FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge The density of the air, of course, has a pronounced effect on aircraft and engine performance. Regardless of the actual altitude at which the aircraft is operating, it will perform as though it were operating at an altitude equal to the existing density altitude.… High density altitude refers to thin air while low density altitude refers to dense air. The conditions that result in a high density altitude are high elevations, low atmospheric pressures, high temperatures, high humidity, or some combination of these factors.
37. PLT511 UA.III.B.K1d What are characteristics of a moist, unstable air mass?
A) Turbulence and showery precipitation.
B) Poor visibility and smooth air.
C) Haze and smoke.
—A
Remote Pilot Study Guide Stability of an air mass determines its typical weather characteristics. When one type of air mass overlies another, conditions change with height. Characteristics typical of an unstable and a stable air mass are as follows:
Unstable Air: Cumuliform clouds, Showery precipitation, Rough air (turbulence), Good visibility (except in blowing obstructions).
Stable Air: Stratiform clouds and fog, Continuous precipitation, Smooth air, Fair to poor visibility in haze and smoke.
FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Moist, unstable air causes cumulus clouds, showers, and turbulence to form.
38. PLT173 UA.III.B.K1c What are the characteristics of stable air?
A) Good visibility and steady precipitation.
B) Poor visibility and steady precipitation.
C) Poor visibility and intermittent precipitation.
—B
Remote Pilot Study Guide Stability of an air mass determines its typical weather characteristics. When one type of air mass overlies another, conditions change with height. Characteristics typical of an unstable and a stable air mass are as follows:
Unstable Air: Cumuliform clouds, Showery precipitation, Rough air (turbulence), Good visibility (except in blowing obstructions).
Stable Air: Stratiform clouds and fog, Continuous precipitation, Smooth air, Fair to poor visibility in haze and smoke.
FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge …a stable air mass with poor surface visibility. The poor surface visibility is due to the fact that smoke, dust, and other particles cannot rise out of the air mass and are instead trapped near the surface. A stable air mass can produce low stratus clouds and fog.
AC 00-6B Aviation Weather Stability of an air mass determines its typical weather characteristics. When one type of air mass overlies another, conditions change with height. Characteristics typical of an unstable and a stable air mass are as follows:
Unstable air: Cumuliform clouds, Showery precipitation, Rough air (turbulence), Good Visibility.
Stable air; Stratiform clouds and fog, Continuous precipitation, Smooth air, Fair to poor visibility in haze and smoke.
39. PLT059 UA.III.A.K2 (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 12.) The wind direction and velocity at KJFK is from
A) 180° true at 4 knots.
B) 180° magnetic at 4 knots.
C) 040° true at 18 knots.
—A
Remote Pilot Study Guide Chapter 3a: Aviation Weather Sources has a good description of how to decode METARs and TAFs.
Aviation Weather also does a good job of explaining how to decode. The METARs site lets you see the decoded weather next to the coded weather so you can test yourself. They are produced by NOAA and WIND DIRECTION AND SPEED: Direction in tens of degrees from true north (first three digits); next two digits: speed in whole knots; as needed Gusts (character) followed by maximum observed speed; always followed by KT to indicate knots; 00000KT for calm>
18004kt translates to 180° true and 4 kts.
40. PLT059 UA.III.A.K2 (Refer to FAA-CT-8080-2G, Figure 12.) What are the current conditions for Chicago Midway Airport (KMDW)?
A) Sky 700 feet overcast, visibility 1-1/2SM, rain.
B) Sky 7,000 feet overcast, visibility 1-1/2SM, heavy rain.
C) Sky 700 feet overcast, visibility 11, occasionally 2SM, with rain.
—A
Remote Pilot Study Guide Chapter 3a: Aviation Weather Sources has a good description of how to decode METARs and TAFs.
Aviation Weather also does a good job of explaining how to decode. Aviation Weather does a good job of explaining it. The METARs site lets you see the decoded weather next to the coded weather so you can test yourself. They are produced by NOAA and
VISIBILITY: Prevailing visibility in statue miles and fractions (space between whole miles and fractions); always followed by SM to indicate statute miles; values less than 1/4 reported as M1/4SM.
OVC 007 is overcast at 700 feet, 1 1/2SM translates to visibilty of 1-1/2SM, RA is rain.