FAA • 14 CFR Part 107 • Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Understanding FAA Part 107
FAA Part 107 is the primary set of federal regulations that governs commercial drone operations in the United States. If you fly a drone for business, photography, inspections, mapping, agriculture, media, or most professional purposes, these are the rules that apply to you.
Overview
Part 107 explains who can fly commercially, how to become certified, where and when you can fly, operational limits, safety requirements, and how to request waivers for more advanced operations.
- Applies to drones under 55 lbs
- Commercial operations generally require a Remote Pilot Certificate
- Maximum altitude is generally 400 feet AGL
- Visual line of sight is required
- Operations in controlled airspace require authorization
How Part 107 is Organized
Subpart A — General
What this is really saying: These are the foundational rules. It explains what Part 107 applies to, definitions, and the basic legal framework for small unmanned aircraft.
Subpart B — Operating Rules
What this is really saying: This is the “how to legally fly” section. It covers altitude limits, visual line of sight, speed limits, daylight/night operations, airspace rules, preflight inspections, yielding to aircraft, moving vehicles, and general operating limitations.
Subpart C — Remote Pilot Certification
What this is really saying: This section explains how to become a certified remote pilot, maintain your certificate, complete recurrent training, and meet FAA eligibility requirements.
Subpart D — Operations Over People
What this is really saying: These rules explain when drones can fly over people or moving vehicles. The FAA created different operational categories depending on the drone’s weight, safety design, and risk level.
Subpart E — Waivers
What this is really saying: If you want to do something outside the standard rules, like advanced operations, this section explains how to request FAA approval through the waiver process.
Important Sections Pilots Should Know
§107.12
Requires a Remote Pilot Certificate for most commercial drone operations.
§107.13
Your drone must be properly registered with the FAA.
§107.15
The drone must be in safe operating condition before flight.
§107.19
The Remote Pilot in Command is ultimately responsible for the operation.
§107.29
Explains the requirements for night operations and anti-collision lighting.
§107.31
Requires the drone to remain within visual line of sight.
§107.39
Covers operations over people and safety limitations.
§107.41
Controlled airspace operations require FAA authorization.
§107.49
Requires preflight inspections and operational planning before takeoff.
§107.51
Establishes operating limits such as speed and altitude restrictions.
§107.65
Lists the aeronautical knowledge areas covered on the FAA knowledge exam.
§107.200
Explains how operators can apply for waivers to certain regulations.