Airport diagrams support the safe and efficient movement of ground traffic. While these diagrams are primarily intended for manned aviation, they are also valuable for remote pilots. Airport diagrams enhance operational safety by providing insight into controlled airspace environments.
Airport Operations – Part 107 Study Guide
Use these quick notes to review airport diagrams, lighting, and traffic patterns for the FAA Part 107 test.
Airport Diagram Basics must-know
- Movement vs. Non-movement: non-movement areas are ramp/apron; crossing the boundary requires coordination on airports. Marking = solid+dash line; dashed on movement-area side.
- Runway: white numbers/marks; Taxiway: yellow centerline/edge; watch for hold-short signs/markings.
- Signs: Black/yellow = location; Yellow/black = direction; Red/white = mandatory (do not enter).
Traffic Pattern & Right-of-Way
- Standard pattern is left traffic unless charted otherwise: Upwind → Crosswind → Downwind → Base → Final.
- Right-of-way: Always yield to crewed aircraft; land or maneuver to avoid any conflict.
- Monitoring CTAF/ATIS is smart for awareness (not required by 107).
Runway & Taxiway Lighting
- Threshold: Green on approach; Runway end: Red from the departure end.
- REIL: two bright white flashers at the threshold; Edge lights: white (amber near departure end).
- PAPI/VASI: visual glide path info (test favorite). Taxiway: blue edge, green centerline.
- Beacons: White/Green = land airport; White/Yellow = water; Green/Yellow/White = heliport; Dual-peaked white/green = military.
Authorizations & Good Judgment
- Class B/C/D/E-surface need authorization (LAANC where available). Check NOTAMs/TFRs.
- Pick launch/recovery points away from movement areas; brief crew; use conspicuity lighting at dusk/night.
Quick Self-Check (10 Questions)
Study notes aligned to your handouts on airport operations, lighting, and diagrams.