Frequently Asked Questions
About FAA UAS Approvals
Choosing an FAA Authorization
Q: Should I apply for a Special Airworthiness Certificate or a Section 44807 petition for exemption?
A: The appropriate FAA authorization depends on the aircraft, its certification status, and the proposed operation. Section 44807 provides a pathway for certain UAS operations without obtaining an airworthiness certificate. A Special Airworthiness Certificate in the Experimental category (SAC-EC) may be appropriate for activities such as research and development, showing compliance, crew training, exhibition, or market survey. The FAA's requirements should be evaluated based on the specific aircraft and proposed operation before selecting an authorization pathway.
Q: What is the difference between a waiver and an exemption?
A: A waiver and an exemption are different forms of regulatory relief. A waiver permits an operator to deviate from a regulation when the FAA has waiver authority for that regulation. An exemption is a formal request for relief from a regulation under FAA exemption authority, generally under 14 CFR Part 11. Part 107 operators may request waivers from certain Part 107 provisions, while larger or more complex UAS operations may require different FAA authorization pathways, including a Section 44807 exemption, a Special Airworthiness Certificate, or other applicable authorizations.
Section 44807 Process
Q: How long does it take for the FAA to grant a Section 44807 exemption?
A: The FAA requires petitions for exemption to be submitted at least 120 days before the exemption is needed. Actual processing time can vary considerably depending on the complexity of the aircraft and proposed operation, the completeness of the submission, FAA workload, and whether additional information is requested. Applicants should plan well in advance and submit a complete petition to minimize avoidable delays.
Q: Does the FAA provide updates or an estimate on when an exemption will be granted?
A: The FAA does not provide applicants with a detailed, ongoing processing schedule or guaranteed approval date. Petitioners can track their docket on Regulations.gov, where the petition and subsequent FAA documents are posted. The FAA also advises petitioners to submit complete applications well in advance because incomplete submissions may delay processing.
Q: What is a Blanket COA?
A: A Blanket Certificate of Authorization (COA) is an FAA authorization that provides specified UAS operators with access to defined airspace subject to the conditions and limitations of the COA. The FAA currently provides a Blanket COA associated with Section 44807 exemptions for operations in Class G airspace at or below 400 feet AGL, when applicable. The COA includes specific requirements concerning operating areas, airports, manned-aircraft avoidance, NOTAMs, reporting, and other operational conditions.
Q: How can I operate in controlled airspace after I get a Section 44807 exemption?
A: A Section 44807 exemption does not by itself authorize operations in every type of airspace. Operators must obtain the applicable FAA airspace authorization or other required authorization for the proposed operation and comply with its conditions and limitations. The FAA's current COA process should be consulted to determine the appropriate authorization for the specific location, altitude, and operation.
Q: What are the reporting requirements for Section 44807 operations?
A: Flight-log and operational reporting requirements depend on the applicable FAA exemption, COA, and operating authorization. For example, the FAA's current Blanket COA for Section 44807 operations requires monthly reporting of specified operational information, including aircraft registration, operating locations, number of flights, operating hours, damage, malfunctions, and lost-link events. Operators must also comply with any separate accident, incident, mishap, or other reporting requirements applicable to their authorization.
UAS and Pilot Requirements
Q: What are the pilot requirements for operating an over 55-pound drone?
A: PIC requirements for a UAS weighing 55 pounds or more depend on the applicable FAA exemption, operating authorization, and proposed operation. FAA grants may establish requirements for pilot certification, medical certification, training, experience, currency, and proficiency. Operators should review the specific exemption and applicable operating documents to determine the requirements for their operation.
Q: How do I obtain an N-Number for my over 55-pound UAS?
A: UAS weighing 55 pounds or more must be registered with the FAA under 14 CFR Part 47 and receive an N-number. The registration process requires the applicable aircraft registration application, evidence of ownership, an affidavit of ownership or other required documentation, and the applicable registration fee. The FAA's current unmanned-aircraft registration guidance should be consulted for the forms and documentation required for the specific aircraft.
Q: How do I find an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)?
A: If your FAA authorization requires a medical certificate, you can locate an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) through the FAA's official AME search resources. Before scheduling an examination, confirm the class of medical certificate required by your applicable FAA authorization and review the FAA's current medical-certification guidance. FAA MedXPress is used to complete the medical certification application before the AME examination.