Drone Pilot Practice Exam

What must an RPIC do before conducting drone operations in controlled airspace?

1. File a flight plan with the FAA

2. Notify local law enforcement

3. Obtain authorization from air traffic control

4. Ensure their drone is fully charged

The correct answer is: Obtain authorization from air traffic control

An RPIC (Remote Pilot in Command) is required to obtain authorization from air traffic control before operating a drone in controlled airspace. Controlled airspace is designated for the safety of manned aircraft, and drones cannot operate there without explicit permission. This ensures that the drone’s operations are coordinated with other air traffic, minimizing the risk of mid-air collisions and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. Obtaining this authorization typically involves either a waiver for specific operations or, more commonly, using the FAA’s LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) system, which allows drone pilots to receive near-instant approval for flights in controlled airspace. This process is vital for maintaining safety and adhering to the law while operating within areas where manned aircraft are present. The other options listed, while they may have their own relevance in some contexts of drone operations, do not address the primary requirement for flying in controlled airspace, which is the need for air traffic control authorization.