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• Having the remote pilot and VO pace off 400 feet from the small unmanned aircraft while it is on the ground to get a visual perspective of distance so that the remote pilot and VO can recognize and maintain that visual perspective (or closer) when the small unmanned aircraft is in flight; or
• Using the known height of local rising terrain and/or structures as a reference.
5.12.3 Vis ibility and Distance from Clouds . The remote PIC must determine that the visibility from the CS is at least 3 sm and that the small unmanned aircraft maintains at least 500 feet below clouds and at least 2,000 feet horizontally from clouds. Obtaining local aviation weather reports that include current and forecast weather conditions is one means of determining visibility and cloud clearance. If there is more than one local aviation reporting station near the operating area, the remote PIC should choose the closest one that is most representative of the terrain surrounding the operating area. If local aviation weather reports are not available, the remote PIC cannot operate the small unmanned aircraft until they are able to determine the required visibility and cloud clearances by other reliable means. The small unmanned aircraft cannot be operated above any cloud, and there cannot be obstructions to visibility, such as smoke or a cloud, between the small unmanned aircraft and the remote PIC (§ 107.39).
5.13 R emaining Clear of Other Aircraft. A remote PIC has a responsibility to operate the small unmanned aircraft so that it remains clear of and yields to all other aircraft (§ 107.37). This is traditionally referred to as “see and avoid.” To satisfy this responsibility, the remote PIC must know the location and flightpath of their small unmanned aircraft at all times. The remote PIC must be aware of other aircraft, persons, and property in the vicinity of the operating area, and maneuver the small unmanned aircraft to avoid collision. The remote PIC must take action to ensure other aircraft will not need to maneuver to avoid colliding with the small unmanned aircraft.
5.14 Operations from Moving Vehicles. Part 107 permits operation of a small unmanned aircraft from a moving land or water-borne vehicle over a sparsely-populated area.
However, operation from a moving aircraft is prohibited. Additionally, small unmanned aircraft transporting another person’s property for compensation or hire may not be operated from any moving vehicle (§ 107.25).
5.14.1 W aiving the Sparsely-Populated Area Provision. Although the regulation states that operations from a moving vehicle may only be conducted over a sparsely-populated area, this provision may be waived (§§ 107.200 and 107.205). The operation is subject to the same restrictions that apply to all other part 107 operations. The remote PIC operating from a moving vehicle is still required to maintain VLOS. The remote PIC is also responsible for ensuring that no person is subject to undue risk as a result of LOC of the small unmanned aircraft for any reason. If a VO is not located in the same vehicle as the remote PIC, the VO and remote PIC must still maintain effective communication.
5.14.2 Applicable Laws. Other laws, such as St ate and local traffic laws, may apply to a person driving a vehicle and operating an unmanned aircraft from the vehicle. When operating a small UAS from a moving vehicle, the FAA emphasizes that people involved in the
5-13 operation are responsible for complying with applicable State and local laws as well as FAA regulations.
5.15 Transportation of Property. Part 107 permits transportation of property by small unmanned aircraft for compensation or hire. These operations must be conducted within a confined area and in compliance with the operating restrictions of part 107. When transporting property, the transport must occur wholly within the bounds of a single State.
5.15.1 L imitations . As with other operations in part 107, small UAS operations involving the transport of property must be conducted within VLOS of the remote pilot. While the VLOS limitation can be waived for some operations under the rule, it cannot for transportation of property. Additionally, part 107 does not allow the operation of a small UAS from a moving vehicle or aircraft if the small unmanned aircraft is being used to transport property for compensation or hire. This limitation cannot be waived. The maximum total weight of the small unmanned aircraft (including any property being transported) is limited to under 55 pounds. Other provisions of part 107 require the remote pilot to know the small unmanned aircraft’s location; to determine the small unmanned aircraft’s attitude, altitude, and direction; to yield the right-of-way to other aircraft; and to maintain the ability to see and avoid other aircraft.
5.15.2 Hazardous Materials. Section 107.36 prohibits the carriage of hazardous materials by small unmanned aircraft. The carriage of any hazardous material on a small unmanned aircraft may only occur if the operator holds an exemption that permits such carriage.
Title 14 CFR part 11 applies to petitions for exemption.
5.16 O perations While Impaired. Part 107 does not allow operation of a small UAS if the remote PIC, person manipulating the controls, or VO is unable to carry out their responsibilities safely (§ 107.27). It is the remote PIC’s responsibility to ensure all crewmembers are not impaired while participating in the operation. While drug and alcohol use are known to impair judgment, certain over-the-counter medications and medical conditions could also affect the ability to operate a small unmanned aircraft safely. For example, certain antihistamines and decongestants may cause drowsiness.
Additionally, part 107 prohibits a person from serving as a remote PIC, VO, or other crewmember, or manipulating the controls, if they:
• Consumed any alcoholic beverage within the preceding 8 hours;
• Are under the influence of alcohol;
• Have a blood alcohol concentration of .04 percent or greater; or
• Are using a drug that affects the person’s mental or physical capabilities (§ 91.17).
5.16.1 M edical Conditions . Certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, may also create a risk to operations. It is the responsibility of remote PICs to determine that their medical condition is under control and they can safely conduct a small UAS operation.
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5.17 Remote Identification of Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Remote identification requirements are contained in part 89. The information contained in this AC covers the remote identification operational requirements that are relevant to all part 107 operators.
Additional information related to remote identification is available in the following ACs:
• AC 89-1, Means of Compliance Process for Remote Identification of Unmanned Aircraft.
• AC 89-2, Declaration of Compliance Process for Remote Identification of Unmanned Aircraft.
5.17.1 After September 16, 2023, most small unmanned aircraft that are registered or required to be registered must comply with remote identification requirements. The serial number of a standard remote identification unmanned aircraft, or of the remote identification broadcast module, if one is installed on the unmanned aircraft, must be listed on the Certificate of Aircraft Registration. The serial number may only be listed on one Certificate of Aircraft Registration at a time. The remote identification broadcast module may be moved from one unmanned aircraft operated under part 107 to another, but the serial number must also be moved from the first aircraft’s Certificate of Aircraft Registration to the second aircraft’s certificate prior to operation. Small unmanned aircraft that are not required to be registered under part 48, such as those where the unmanned aircraft weighs 0.55 pounds or less, must comply with remote identification requirements when operated under any operating part for which registration is required.
Remote identification provides data regarding the location and identification of small unmanned aircraft operating in the NAS. It also provides airspace awareness to the FAA, national security agencies, and law enforcement entities, which can be used to distinguish compliant airspace users from those potentially posing a safety or security risk. A list of unmanned aircraft by make and model that are compliant with remote identification will be found at https://www.faa.gov/uas, when developed.
5.17.2 Standard remote identification unmanned aircraft broadcast certain message elements over radio frequency (RF) spectrum. These message elements include: Unmanned Aircraft Identification (either the unmanned aircraft’s serial number or session ID);
latitude, longitude, and geometric altitude of both the CS and the unmanned aircraft; the velocity of the unmanned aircraft (including horizontal and vertical speed and direction);
a time mark; and an emergency status code (§ 89.110).
5.17.3 Small unmanned aircraft without remote identification. Small unmanned aircraft that are not standard remote identification unmanned aircraft may operate in one of two ways: the small unmanned aircraft may be equipped with a remote identification broadcast module, or the small unmanned aircraft may be operated within an FAA-recognized identification area (FRIA) (§ 89.115).
5.17.3.1 Unmanned aircraft equipped with remote identification modules may be integrated by the manufacturer (e.g., if a manufacturer upgraded or retrofit the aircraft) or a standalone broadcast module installed by the user secured to the unmanned aircraft prior to takeoff. The remote identification broadcast module broadcasts certain message elements directly from the unmanned
5-15 aircraft over RF spectrum. These message elements include: the Unmanned Aircraft Identification, the unmanned aircraft’s serial number; latitude, longitude, and geometric altitude of the unmanned aircraft; latitude, longitude, and geometric altitude of the takeoff location; the velocity of the unmanned aircraft (including horizontal and vertical speed and direction); and a time mark. Small unmanned aircraft using a remote identification broadcast module must be operated within VLOS (§ 89.115(a)).
5.17.3.2 A person operating a small unmanned aircraft that is not a standard remote identification unmanned aircraft may also operate within VLOS within a FRIA, regardless of the type of operation conducted (e.g., part 91, 107, or other). You will be able to access a list of FRIAs at https://www.faa.gov/uas when available (§ 89.115).
5.18 In-F light Emergency. An in-flight emergency is an unexpected and unforeseen serious occurrence or situation that requires urgent, prompt action. In the case of an in-flight emergency, the remote PIC is permitted to deviate from any rule of part 107 to the extent necessary to respond to that emergency. A remote PIC who exercises this emergency power is required, upon the FAA’s request, to send a written report to the FAA explaining the deviation. Emergency action should be taken in such a way as to minimize injury or damage to property (§ 107.21).
5.19 Careless or Reckless Operation. As with manned aircraft, remote PICs are prohibited from engaging in a careless or reckless operation (§ 107.23). Because small UAS have additional operating considerations that are not present in manned aircraft operations, additional activity may amount to careless or reckless operation if conducted using a small UAS. For example, careless or reckless operation may consist of failure to consider weather conditions near structures, trees, or rolling terrain when operating in a densely populated area.
5.20 Certificate of Waiver. Part 107 includes the option to apply for a CoW. This CoW will allow a small UAS operation to deviate from certain provisions of part 107 if the Administrator finds that the proposed operation can be safely conducted under the terms of that CoW (§ 107.200). A list of the sections of part 107 subject to waiver are listed below:
• Section 107.25: Operation from a moving vehicle or aircraft.
• Section 107.29(a)(2) and (b): Anti-collision light required for operations at night and during periods of civil twilight.
• Section 107.31: Visual line of sight aircraft operation. However, no waiver of this provision will be issued to allow the carriage of property of another by aircraft for compensation or hire.
• Section 107.33: Visual observer.
• Section 107.35: Operation of multiple small unmanned aircraft systems.
• Section 107.37(a): Yielding the right-of-way.
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• Section 107.39: Operation over people.
• Section 107.41: Operation in certain airspace.
• Section 107.51: Operating limitations for small unmanned aircraft.
• Section 107.145: Operations over moving vehicles.
5.20.1 A pplying for a CoW. A CoW can be requested by following the instructions and submitting an application at https ://www.faa.gov/uas/ .
5.20.2 Application Process. The application must contain a complete description of the proposed operation and a justification, including supporting data and documentation (as necessary), that establishes the proposed operation can safely be conducted under the terms of a CoW. A complete listing of Waiver Safety Explanation Guidelines is posted to the FAA’s website to assist waiver applicants in preparing their proposals and justifications for applications for waiver. They can be found at https://www.faa.gov/uas/com mercial_opera tors/part_107_waivers/waiver_safety_explanation_guidelines/. Although not required by part 107, the FAA encourages waiver applicants to submit their application at least 90 days prior to the start of the proposed operation. The FAA will strive to complete review and adjudication of waivers within 90 days; however, the time required for the FAA to make a determination regarding waiver requests will vary based on the complexity of the request. The amount of data and analysis required as part of the application will be proportional to the specific relief that is requested. For example, a request to waive several sections of part 107 for an operation that takes place in a congested metropolitan area with heavy air traffic will likely require significantly more data and analyses than a request to waive a single section for an operation that takes place in a sparsely-populated area with minimal air traffic. If a CoW is granted, that certificate may include specific special provisions designed to ensure the small UAS operation may be conducted as safely as one conducted under the provisions of part 107. A listing of standard special provisions for part 107 waivers is available on the FAA’s website at https ://www.faa.gov/uas/ .
5.21 Supplemental Operational Information. Appendix B, Supplemental Operational Information, contains expanded information regarding operational topics that should be considered prior to operations.
6-1 CHAPTER 6. PART 107 SUBPART C, REMOTE PILOT CERTIFICATION
6.1 Applicability. This chapter provides guidance regarding the airman certification requirements and procedures for persons acting as remote pilot in command (PIC) of a small UAS operated in the National Airspace System (NAS). In the aviation context, the FAA typically refers to “licensing” as “certification.”
6.2 Remote Pilot Certification. An individual exercising the authority of PIC in compliance with part 107 is considered a “remote PIC.” As such, prior to acting as remote PIC, an individual must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate with a small UAS rating (§ 107.12).
6.3 Eligibility. Pursuant to the requirements of § 107.61, an individual applying for a Remote Pilot Certificate with a small UAS rating must meet the following eligibility requirements, as applicable:
• Be at least 16 years of age.
• Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.
Note: Please refer to § 107.17 for small UAS operating prohibitions for an individual with known medical conditions.
• Be in a physical and mental condition that would not interfere with the safe operation of a small UAS.
• Pass the initial aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center (KTC). However, an individual who already holds a pilot certificate issued under 14 CFR part 61, other than a student pilot certificate, and meets the flight review requirements specified in part 61, § 61.56 is only required to complete successfully a part 107 online training, found at https://www.faasafety.gov. For more information concerning aeronautical knowledge tests and training, see paragraphs 6.7 and 6.8.
6.4 Application Process. This paragraph provides guidance on how an individual can apply for a Remote Pilot Certificate (§ 107.63).
6.4.1 R emot e Pilot Applicants Without Part 61 Certificates. An individual who does not hold a part 61 pilot certificate or a part 61 certificate holder who does not meet the flight review requirements specified in § 61.56 must use the following process. A part 61 pilot who meets the flight review requirements specified in § 61.56 may elect to use this process.
1. P ass an initial aeronautical knowledge test administered at a KTC (see paragraph s 6.7 and 6.8).
2. Complete and submit the Remote Pilot Certificate and/or Rating Application for a Remote Pilot Certificate (FAA Form 8710-13).
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• Option 1 (Online Form): This is the fastest and simplest method. The FAA Form 8710-13 application should be completed online using the electronic FAA Integrated Airmen Certificate and Rating Application (IACRA) system (h ttps://iacra.faa.gov/iacra/ ). An applicant seeking a Remote Pilot Certificate must have already passed an initial Remote Pilot aeronautical knowledge test. Once registered with IACRA, the applicant will log in with their username and password. Click on “Start New Application” and (1) Application Type: “Pilot,”
(2) Certifications: “Initial Remote Pilot,” (3) “Other Path Information,” and
(4) “Start Application.” Continue through the application process and, when prompted, the applicant may select the knowledge test information provided or enter the 17-digit Knowledge Test Exam ID from the knowledge test in IACRA.
Knowledge Test Reports upload immediately to the IACRA system. This allows processing the application for certification without any delay after passing the test. The KTC test proctor verifies the identity of the applicant. Once the applicant completes the online application in IACRA, the applicant signs the application electronically and submits it to the Airman Registry for processing. No FAA representative will be required to sign the application if the applicant was able to self-certify.
N ote: When an applicant seeking a Remote Pilot Certificate uses this onli ne option, the application transmits electronically from the applicant to the Airman Registry. The only electronic signature reflected on the IACRA application will be the applicant’s. The Registry confirms basic airman information with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prior to generating a Temporary Airman Certificate. Once completed, the applicant receives a confirmation email allowing the applicant to log into the IACRA system and print a copy of the temporary certificate.
• Option 2 (Paper Application): An applicant seeking a Remote Pilot Certificate could also submit a paper application. If the applicant chooses the paper method, the original Remote Pilot initial aeronautical knowledge test report must be mailed with the application to the following address:
DOT/FAA Airmen Certification Branch (AFB-720) P.O. Box 25082 Oklahoma City, OK 73125 Note: A Temporary Airman Certificate will not be provided to the remote pilot applicant if the applicant does not hold a part 61 certificate. For this reason, it would be in the applicant’s best interest to utilize Option 1 (IACRA system) instead of the paper method, in order to receive a Temporary Airman Certificate once the application has completed the TSA vetting process.
3. Receive permanent Remote Pilot Certificate once all other FAA internal processing is complete.
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6.4.2 A pplicants with Part 61 Certificates . Instead of the process described above, an individual who holds a part 61 pilot certificate, other than a student pilot certificate, and meets the flight review requirements specified in § 61.56 may elect to apply using the following process:
1. C omplete the online Part 107 Small Unmanned Ai rcraft Systems (small UAS) training located within the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) website (https://www.faasafety.gov) and receive a completion certificate.
2. Complete the Remote Pilot Certificate and/or Rating Application for a Remote Pilot Certificate (FAA Form 8710-13).
• Option 1 (Online Application): In almost all cases, the application should be completed online using the electronic FAA IACRA system (https://iacra.faa.gov/iacra/). The applicant must include verification that th e applicant completed the online training or passed an initial aeronautical knowledge test. The applicable official document(s) must be uploaded into IACRA either by the applicant or the certifying official.
• Op tion 2 (Paper): The application may be completed on paper. Using this method, the certificate of completion for the online training must be included with the application. A part 61 pilot, who also meets the requirements of § 61.56, may also take the knowledge test for initial certification. If a part 61 pilot decides to take the knowledge test, the pilot must also include the knowledge test report with their paper application. Please note that the processing time will be increased if a paper application is used.
3. Contact a certifying official such as the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), an Airman Certification Representative (ACR), or a certificated flight instructor (CFI) to make an appointment to validate the applicant’s identification. The applicant must present the completed FAA Form 8710-13 along with the online training completion certificate or knowledge test report (as applicable) and proof of meeting the flight review requirements specified in § 61.56. The FAA Form 8710-13 application will be signed by the applicant after the certifying official examines the applicant’s photo identification and verifies the applicant’s identity. The FAA representative will then sign the application. The identification presented must include a photograph of the applicant, the applicant’s signature, and the applicant’s actual residential address (if different from the mailing address). This information may be presented in more than one form of identification. Acceptable methods of identification include, but are not limited to U.S. drivers’ licenses, government identification cards, passports, and military identification cards (see Appendix D, Remote Pilot Certification and Applicant Identity Verification). If using paper or IACRA method, an appropriate FSDO representative, a DPE, or an ACR will issue the applicant a Temporary Airman Certificate.
Note: A CFI is not authorized to issue a temporary certificate. The applicant can print their own Temporary Airman Certificate after receiving an email from the FAA notifying the applicant that it is available. The FSDO signs and
6-4 mails the application to AFB-720 for the issuance of the permanent certificate.
Flight instructors may refer to AC 61-141.
6.5 Security Disqualification. After the FAA receives the application, the TSA will vet the applicant prior to issuance of a temporary Remote Pilot Certificate. If the vetting is successful, the FAA will issue a permanent Remote Pilot Certificate. If the vetting is not successful, the applicant will be disqualified and a temporary or permanent pilot certificate will not be issued. Individuals who believe they improperly failed a security threat assessment may appeal the decision to the TSA.
6.6 FAA Tracking Number (FTN) Requirement. Beginning January 13, 2020, all applicants must establish an FTN within IACRA before taking any FAA airman knowledge test.
• This identification number will be printed on the applicant’s Airman Knowledge Test Report (AKTR) in replacement of the Applicant ID number.
• To register for an FTN in IACRA, applicants will need to visit the IACRA website and follow the instructions provided.
• You can access IACRA at https://iacra.faa.gov/iacra/.
• Once you have your FTN, you can register to take your FAA Airman Knowledge Test by going to the following registration and scheduling website operated by PSI Services LLC: https://faa.psiexams.com/FAA/login.
• You can find FTN Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers) at https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acts/media/ftn_faqs.pdf.
• You can find a video about the registration process for an FTN in IACRA at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETLsH8BruBM&feature=youtu.be.
6.7 Aeronautical Knowledge Test. The FAA publishes the Remote Pilot – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Airman Certification Standards (ACS) (https://www.faa.gov/training_te sting/testing/acs/) that provides the standards for the Knowledge Test. Mate rials helpful for preparation are available at https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_office s/avs/offices/afx/afs/afs600/afs630/. Chapter 2, References, l ists FAA publications and online resources that will assist in preparing for remote pilot certification.
Note: The following information regarding the knowledge test applies to i ndividuals who do not hold a current part 61 airman certificate.
6.7.1 Knowledge Test. As described in paragraph 6.4, an individual applying for a Remote Pilot Certificate with a small UAS rating must pass an initial aeronautical knowledge test given at an FAA-approved KTC. In order to take an aeronautical knowledge test, an applicant must schedule an appointment with the KTC. On the day of scheduled testing, the applicant must provide proper government-issued photo identification to KTC. The location of the closest KTC can be found at https://faa.psiexams.com/FAA/login. The knowledge test will cover the aeronautical knowledge areas listed below:
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1. Applicable regulations relating to small UAS rating privileges, limitations, and flight operation;
2. Airspace classification, operating requirements, and flight restrictions affecting small unmanned aircraft operations;
3. Aviation weather sources and effects of weather on small unmanned aircraft performance;
4. Small unmanned aircraft loading;
5. Emergency procedures;
6. Crew Resource Management (CRM);
7. Radio communication procedures;
8. Determining the performance of the small unmanned aircraft;
9. Physiological effects of drugs and alcohol;
10. Aeronautical decision-making (ADM) and judgment;
11. Airport operations;
12. Maintenance and preflight inspection procedures; and
13. Operation at night.
6.7.1.1 A part 61 certificate holder who meets the flight review requirements specified in § 61.56 may complete training instead of taking the knowledge test (see paragraph 6.7). This training includes the following topics:
1. Applicable regulations relating to small UAS rating privileges, limitations, and flight operation;
2. Effects of weather on small unmanned aircraft performance;
3. Small unmanned aircraft loading;
4. Emergency procedures;
5. CRM;
6. Determining the performance of small unmanned aircraft;
7. Maintenance and preflight inspection procedures; and
8. Operation at night.
6.7.2 Recurrent Training. After an individual receives a Remote Pilot Certificate with a small UAS rating, that individual must retain the level of knowledge required to safely operate a small UAS in the NAS. To continue exercising the privileges of a Remote Pilot Certificate, the certificate holder must successfully complete recurrent training within 24 calendar-months of passing either an initial knowledge test or initial knowledge training. Figure 6-1, Recurrent Training Cycle Examples, illustrates an individual’s potential renewal cycles.
6-6 Figure 6-1. Recurrent Training Cycle Examples Individual passes an initial aeronautical knowledge test on September 13, 2020. Then Recurrent training must be completed no later than September 30, 2022, which does not exceed 24 calendar-months.
Individual does not pass recurrent training until October 5, 2020.
Then Individual may not exercise the privileges of the Remote Pilot Certificate between October 1, 2020, and October 5, 2020, when the training is completed. The next recurrent knowledge training must be completed no later than October 31, 2022, which does not exceed 24 calendar-months.
Individual elects to take recurrent training on or prior to September 30, 2020. The recurrent training is completed on July 15, 2020.
Then The next recurrent training must be completed no later than July 31, 2022, which does not exceed 24 calendar-months.
6.8 Aeronautical Knowledge Training. This paragraph is applicable to individuals who hold a part 61 airman certificate, other than a student pilot certificate, and meet the flight review requirements specified in § 61.56.
6.8.1 Training. As described in paragraph 6.7, an individual who holds a part 61 airman certificate, other than a student pilot certificate, and meets the flight review requirements specified in § 61.56 may complete training instead of the initial knowledge test. The training can be taken online at https://www.faasafety.gov. The FAA offers options for training completion in addition to those available on https://www.faasafety.gov. Other options include completion of special pilot proficiency programs, such as an FAA-provided WINGS course specific to small UAS operations. These programs will offer tools and resources to strengthen decision-making skills and enable the remote pilot to continue to ensure they operate safely within the bounds of part 107.
7-1 CHAPTER 7. SMALL UAS MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION
7.1 Applicability. Section 107.15 requires the remote PIC to perform checks of the small unmanned aircraft prior to each flight to determine whether the small UAS is in a condition for safe operation. This chapter provides guidance on how to inspect and maintain a small UAS. Additionally, Appendix C, Small UAS Maintenance and Inspection Best Practices, contains expanded information and best practices for small UAS maintenance and inspection.
7.2 Maintenance. Small UAS maintenance includes scheduled and unscheduled overhaul, repair, inspection, modification, replacement, and system software upgrades of the small UAS and its components necessary for flight. Whenever possible, the operator should maintain the small UAS 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. See paragraph 7.3.5 for suggested benefits of recordkeeping. (See paragraph 8.3.7.4 for Category 4 maintenance requirements. See paragraph 8.3.7.4.1 for Category 4 record retention requirements and owner and operator responsibilities.)
7.2.1 S cheduled Maintenance . The small UAS manufacturer may provide documentation for scheduled maintenance of the entire small unmanned aircraft and associated system equipment. The manufacturer may identify components of the small UAS that should undergo scheduled periodic maintenance or replacement based on time-in-service limits (such as flight hours, cycles, and/or the calendar-days). Operators should adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule for such maintenance, in the interest of achieving the longest and safest service life of the small UAS.
7.2.1.1 If the small UAS manufacturer or component manufacturer does not provide scheduled maintenance instructions, the operator should establish a scheduled maintenance protocol. Such protocol could entail documenting any repair, modification, overhaul, or replacement of a system component resulting from normal flight operations, and recording the time-in-service for that component at the time of the maintenance procedure. Over time, the operator should then be able to establish a reliable maintenance schedule for the small UAS and its components.
7.2.2 Unscheduled Maintenance. During the course of a preflight inspection, the remote PIC may discover a small UAS component is in need of servicing (such as lubrication), repair, modification, overhaul, or replacement outside of the scheduled maintenance period as a result of normal flight operations or resulting from a mishap. In addition, the small UAS manufacturer or component manufacturer may require an unscheduled system software update to correct a problem. In the event such a condition is found, flight operations should not occur until the issue is corrected.
7.2.3 P erforming Maintenance . In some instances, the small UAS or component manufacturer may require completion of certain maintenance tasks by the manufacturer or by a person or facility (personnel) the manufacturer specifies. Maintenance should occur in