Drone Pilot Practice Exam

At higher altitudes, which of the following typically increases risk during drone operations?

1. Decreased aircraft visibility

2. Increased wind speeds

3. More frequent communications

4. Warmer temperatures

The correct answer is: Increased wind speeds

At higher altitudes, increased wind speeds are a significant factor that raises risks during drone operations. As drones ascend, they may encounter higher velocity winds that can affect their stability and control. Wind can lead to challenges such as difficulty in maintaining a steady flight path, potential loss of control, or even the possibility of the drone being pushed off course. This is especially critical for smaller drones, which may not have the power or stability to handle strong gusts. Decreased visibility can occur at higher altitudes due to atmospheric conditions, but it is not as universally problematic as increased wind speeds, which can have immediate and severe consequences on flight operations. While communication can become more frequent at greater altitudes due to changing conditions, it does not inherently increase risk the way unpredictable or strong winds do. Temperature variations with altitude may have effects, but they are generally less impactful on flight stability compared to wind conditions. Thus, understanding how winds behave at various altitudes is crucial for safe drone operation.