The Part 107 rules are the basic operating constructs for which the majority of unmanned operations can occur. Without listing out every single rule, there are some basic foundations that are best understood. Basically, the ruling is only a set of guidelines by which flight is limited. And here’s the catch.
The Catch
They, the FAA or any other agency, currently mandate any training or specific operational requirements for the functionality of the drone/UAV. This is a the big catch. To be legal you have to comply with the regulations but that does not mean the operation is safe. It’s similar to getting your drivers license. To be legal to drive one has to have their drivers license but that does not equal being a safe driver.
Or even closer to the point, just because you have a car loaded with all the newest safety features, doesn’t make you a good driver.
That’s the catch. To be legal one has to have the drone registered and pass the Part 107 licensing exam. But, that does not mean that the pilot is any more ready to fly than anyone else. All Part 107 does is help keep pilots on the right track with regard to the basics of operations. It does not provide the wisdom and professionalism obtained with proper training and experience.
The Wisdom
With all that being said the rule itself lays out specific requirements that have to be complied with for any form of commercial drone/uav operations. For example, it defines limitations to speed, altitude, proximity to obstacles, airspace limitations, waivers etc. The actual rule can be downloaded from the FAA web site and it is 151 pages long of fine print. Click here for 107 Summary.
Basic Principals
It defines how to obtain a license and what are the basic parameters under which legal operations can occur. It provides a lot to interpretation should an accident occur – which states that UAV’s shall not be operated in a careless or reckless manner. Phrases like the last statement are typically the CYA so that even if someone is following the rules and there is a mishap blame can be placed at the feet of the operator who can be shown to have been in violation because of their behavior.
