UA.I.B.K20: Preflight familiarization, inspection, and actions for aircraft operations.

ACS Area I — Regulations Task B: Operating Rules References: 14 CFRCode of Federal RegulationsCloseThe federal rulebook where Part 107, Part 89, Part 48, and other aviation rules live. parts 47, 48, 89, and 107, subpart B; ACAdvisory CircularCloseFAA guidance that explains acceptable ways to comply with rules or understand FAA procedures. 107-2; FAAFederal Aviation AdministrationCloseThe U.S. aviation regulator responsible for Part 107 rules, airspace, and pilot certification processes.-H-8083-25; FAAFederal Aviation AdministrationCloseThe U.S. aviation regulator responsible for Part 107 rules, airspace, and pilot certification processes.-G-8082-22

Key Concepts

Preflight Familiarization and Environmental Assessment (§107.49)

Before each operation, conduct a preflight familiarization and inspection. Review local weather, airspace, flight restrictions, and the location of nonparticipants and property. If operating over people or vehicles, verify the aircraft’s category eligibility and assess the potential for nonparticipants entering the area. Conduct necessary crew briefings. Use aeronautical charts or tools like B4UFLYB4UFLYCloseFAA-recognized planning tool for checking nearby airspace and flight restrictions before a drone flight. to identify airspace constraints affecting your flight plan.^[3]

Aircraft Configuration, Eligibility, and Operations Over People/Vehicles (§107.120; AC Ch. 8)

For operations over people, confirm your aircraft’s eligibility and configuration. Category 2 aircraft must not cause injury greater than 11 foot-pounds of kinetic energy, have no exposed rotating parts, and be free of safety defects. They must display a permanent English label indicating Category 2 eligibility and include remote pilot operating instructions.^[2]

Operations over moving vehicles are allowed within closed or restricted sites for Categories 1–3 if nonparticipants are notified. Category 4 may operate over moving vehicles unless restricted by its FAAFederal Aviation AdministrationCloseThe U.S. aviation regulator responsible for Part 107 rules, airspace, and pilot certification processes.-approved Flight Manual. Outside such sites, only transit is allowed over moving vehicles for Categories 1–3.^[4] Category 1 applies to aircraft weighing 0.55 pounds (250 grams) or less.^[4]

For Category 2 or 3 operations over people, follow remote pilot instructions for approved payloads and configurations. Payloads must be permissible and securely attached; otherwise, the aircraft becomes ineligible for Category 2 or 3 operations. Preflight inspections should be thorough to account for increased risk, including reviewing the location of people and weather factors.^[5]

Registration Currency and Remote Identification (Part 48 §48.100; Part 89)

Ensure the aircraft is registered for non-recreational operations. Registration is effective upon issuance of the Certificate of Aircraft Registration, which expires 3 years later. Renew by updating registration information within 6 months before expiration.^[1]

After September 16, 2023, most registered small unmanned aircraft must comply with remote identification. The serial number of the remote ID aircraft or broadcast module must be on the Certificate of Aircraft Registration and appear on only one certificate at a time. If moving a broadcast module to another aircraft, update the registration certificate before operating. Even aircraft not required to be registered under Part 48, such as those weighing 0.55 pounds or less, must comply with remote ID when operated under any part requiring registration.^[7]

Traffic and Wake Turbulence Awareness Near Airports (AIM)

Be alert to wake turbulence from larger aircraft when operating near airports. Controllers may issue “CAUTION − WAKE TURBULENCE” advisories to VFRVisual Flight RulesCloseRules for flight using visual reference and minimum weather conditions. aircraft in communication when wake could be a factor. Regardless of warnings, adjust operations to avoid wake encounters. The AIMAeronautical Information ManualCloseFAA operational guidance and glossary material used to understand aviation procedures and terminology. provides avoidance techniques, especially when parallel runways are closer than 2,500 feet. Maintain situational awareness and request updates if unsure about safe separation from larger aircraft traffic.^[8]