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Class E surface area authorization

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 7 of 21 on Airspace / Classification. ACS element UA.II.A.K1d · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONA remote pilot plans to fly within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport. Under 14 CFR part 107, what is required before the flight?

  1. ANo authorization, because Class E never requires ATC approval
  2. BPrior authorization from ATC
  3. CPermission from the airport's using agency
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Prior authorization from ATC

  • A — incorrect Although a remote pilot usually does not need authorization in Class E, § 107.41 specifically covers the Class E surface area designated for an airport.
  • B — correct § 107.41 prohibits operating a small unmanned aircraft within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport without prior ATC authorization.
  • C — incorrect Permission from a using or controlling agency is the requirement for prohibited and restricted areas under § 107.45, not for Class E surface areas.

BACKGROUND

In most cases a remote pilot will not need Air Traffic Control (ATC) authorization to operate in Class E airspace. The exception is written into 14 CFR § 107.41, which states that no person may operate a small unmanned aircraft in Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace, or within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport, without prior authorization from ATC. Class E surface areas are one of the places where the Class E base is the surface rather than 700 or 1,200 feet AGL.

STUDY TIP

Read § 107.41 carefully: the Class E part applies only to the surface area designated for an airport, not to Class E in general.

KEY POINTS

  • § 107.41 requires prior ATC authorization in B, C, D and Class E surface areas for an airport.
  • Most other Class E operations need no authorization.
  • Using or controlling agency permission belongs to prohibited and restricted areas.

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 107.41
  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt Chapter 2 "Class E Airspace"
Practice the Remote Pilot (Part 107) test →Timed 60-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
MORE ON AIRSPACE / CLASSIFICATION

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on 14 CFR part 107, 14 CFR part 89, and the FAA Remote Pilot – Small UAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22). Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.