Welcome to the Remote Pilot Academy!

In our first unit we’ll break down the parts of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) that shape the way drones operate in the U.S. These parts work together to keep drones integrated safely into the National Airspace System (NAS).

Learning Objectives

By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:

Explain the purpose and scope of Parts 47, 48, 89, and 107 within Title 14 CFR as they relate to small UAS operations.
Identify how aircraft registration, Remote ID compliance, and operational regulations work together to maintain safety in the National Airspace System (NAS).
Differentiate between traditional aircraft registration (Part 47) and online registration for small UAS (Part 48).
Summarize the key requirements of Part 89 (Remote ID) and how it integrates with Part 107 operations.

Regulatory Framework for Small UAS

How Parts 47, 48, 89 & 107 work together for safe, legal drone ops in the NAS.

Part 47 — Traditional Aircraft Registration

Purpose: Paper-based registration framework historically used for manned and complex aircraft. Some organizations still use Part 47 to record ownership, liens, and detailed documentation.

Key point: Most sUAS pilots won’t use Part 47, but it remains the legacy registry for aircraft documentation and title records.

Part 48 — Online sUAS Registration

Purpose: Fast, online FAA registration for small UAS (recreational & commercial). Produces your FAA registration number for labeling your drone.

Key point: Default path for sUAS registration—simple, digital, and tied to Remote ID compliance and lawful NAS operations.

Part 89 — Remote ID (“digital license plate”)

Purpose: Requires most drones to broadcast identification and location data during flight. Improves security, situational awareness, and airspace coordination.

Key point: Operate a RID-equipped aircraft or fly at an FAA-Recognized Identification Area (FRIA) when applicable.

Part 107 — Operational Rules for Commercial sUAS

Purpose: Sets the rules for small UAS operations (pilot certification, operating limits, airspace authorizations, and waivers).

Key point: This is the day-to-day rulebook for commercial flights; use LAANC/authorizations for controlled airspace and apply for waivers when you need relief from specific rules.

Part 47: Traditional Registration for UA ≥ 55 lb

Applies when:

UA weighs ≥55 lb.
Ownership uses a trust / financing arrangement
Owner needs N-number
Key Notes
Uses AC Form 8050-1
Requires notarized affidavit
$5 fee
Only U.S. citizens / resident aliens / qualified corporations
Certificate must be onboard & renewed every 3 years

💡 Think: Large / complex / international = Part 47

Part 89: Remote ID (RID)

Required for nearly all UAS operations outside designated FRIAs

Three Compliance Options

Standard RID UA (built-in RID)
RID Broadcast Module (add-on)
Fly only in a FRIA (community-based RC sites)

Minimum Broadcast Elements

UA location + altitude
Control station location
UA ID (serial or session ID)
Timestamp + emergency status

🚀 Goal: Airspace awareness for law enforcement + FAA

Part 48: Online Registration for sUAS <55 lb

Most Part 107 pilots use this system. Fast. Online. Low-cost.

Requirements

UA <55 lb
Registered online in FAADroneZone
Certificate valid 3 years
Exterior marking required
Remote ID Integration
- Must include RID serial number if UA/broadcast module equipped
  → Part 48 + Part 89 work hand-in-hand ✅

💡 Think: Lightweight + commercial = Part 48

Part 107: Rules for Commercial sUAS

The FAA’s Part 107 rules establish the standards for commercial drone operations in the U.S. Anyone operating a drone for business, education, or government work must be certified.

Part 107 covers key requirements like aircraft registration, maximum altitude, visual line of sight, airspace authorizations, Remote ID compliance, and avoiding hazards to people, aircraft, and property on the ground.

These rules help ensure drones safely share the National Airspace System (NAS) with manned aircraft.

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Chapter 1: Intro to part 47, 48, 89, and 107