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Minimum distance from clouds

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 2 of 31 on Airspace / Operational Requirements. ACS element UA.II.B.K1 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONWhat minimum distance from clouds must a small unmanned aircraft maintain under § 107.51?

  1. A1,000 feet below and 2,000 feet horizontally
  2. B500 feet below and 2,000 feet horizontally
  3. C500 feet below and 1,000 feet horizontally from the cloud
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. 500 feet below and 2,000 feet horizontally

  • A — incorrect The vertical figure in § 107.51(d) is 500 feet below the cloud, not 1,000 feet.
  • B — correct § 107.51(d) requires the small unmanned aircraft to stay no less than 500 feet below and 2,000 feet horizontally from clouds.
  • C — incorrect The horizontal figure in § 107.51(d) is 2,000 feet, not 1,000 feet.

BACKGROUND

Section 107.51(d) gives the cloud-clearance minimums for small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). The aircraft must remain at least 500 feet below a cloud and at least 2,000 feet horizontally from it. These distances work together with the 3-statute-mile flight visibility minimum in paragraph (c) to keep the aircraft in conditions where the remote pilot can see it and other traffic can be seen and avoided. The limits apply to the remote pilot in command and to any person manipulating the flight controls.

STUDY TIP

Memorize the pair 500 feet below and 2,000 feet horizontal; questions often swap one of the two numbers.

KEY POINTS

  • Cloud clearance under part 107: 500 feet below the cloud.
  • Cloud clearance under part 107: 2,000 feet horizontally from the cloud.
  • These minimums are in § 107.51(d) and apply to every part 107 flight.

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 107.51(d)
Practice the Remote Pilot (Part 107) test →Timed 60-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
MORE ON AIRSPACE / OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

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.