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Interference with a seaplane base

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 2 of 22 on Operations / Airport Operations. ACS element UA.V.B.K3 · 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 near a seaplane base that has no control tower and lies outside controlled airspace. Which part 107 restriction still applies there?

  1. APrior ATC authorization is required before any flight nearby
  2. BFlight is prohibited within 5 statute miles of the seaplane base
  3. CNo interference with its operations and traffic patterns
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. No interference with its operations and traffic patterns

  • A — incorrect § 107.41 requires ATC authorization only in Class B, C, or D airspace or the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport, which does not apply outside controlled airspace.
  • B — incorrect Part 107 contains no distance-based prohibition around airports or seaplane bases; the applicable rule is the interference prohibition in § 107.43.
  • C — correct § 107.43 prohibits operating a small unmanned aircraft in a manner that interferes with operations and traffic patterns at any airport, heliport, or seaplane base.

BACKGROUND

Section 107.43 states that no person may operate a small unmanned aircraft in a manner that interferes with operations and traffic patterns at any airport, heliport, or seaplane base. The rule is not limited to towered airports or to controlled airspace, so it applies at a non-towered seaplane base as well. A separate rule, § 107.41, requires prior authorization from air traffic control (ATC) only 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. The study guide's definition of an airport includes seaplane bases and heliports among the special types of facilities.

STUDY TIP

Separate the two airport rules: § 107.41 is about airspace authorization, § 107.43 is about not interfering with traffic patterns at any airport, heliport, or seaplane base.

KEY POINTS

  • § 107.43 applies at any airport, heliport, or seaplane base.
  • It prohibits interference with operations and traffic patterns.
  • ATC authorization under § 107.41 is a separate, airspace-based requirement.

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 107.43
  • 14 CFR 107.41
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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.