SkyDrill

Continuing flight with an unsafe battery

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 13 of 19 on Operations / Emergency Procedures. ACS element UA.V.C.K2c · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONDuring a flight, the remote pilot in command notices the aircraft's battery is overheating and swelling, and concludes that the small unmanned aircraft system is no longer in a condition for safe operation. Under § 107.15, what must the pilot do?

  1. AContinue the flight only if the aircraft stays below 400 feet AGL
  2. BContinue the flight if a visual observer monitors the aircraft
  3. CDiscontinue the flight; continuing is prohibited
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Discontinue the flight; continuing is prohibited

  • A — incorrect Altitude does not change the rule; once the pilot knows the system is unsafe, continuing the flight is prohibited.
  • B — incorrect Using a visual observer does not permit continued flight of a system known to be unsafe.
  • C — correct § 107.15(b) states that no person may continue flight of the small unmanned aircraft when he or she knows or has reason to know it is no longer in a condition for safe operation.

BACKGROUND

Section 107.15 sets the condition-for-safe-operation rule. Paragraph (a) prohibits operating a civil small unmanned aircraft system (UAS) unless it is in a condition for safe operation and requires the remote pilot in command to check it before each flight. Paragraph (b) extends the rule into the flight itself: no person may continue flight when he or she knows or has reason to know that the small UAS is no longer in a condition for safe operation. A lithium battery that is overheating or swelling is a sign of an unsafe condition, so the pilot must end the flight rather than press on.

STUDY TIP

Read § 107.15 as two duties: check before flight, and stop the flight as soon as you know the system is no longer safe.

KEY POINTS

  • § 107.15(b) prohibits continuing flight once the pilot knows the system is unsafe.
  • The rule applies regardless of altitude or crew composition.
  • Battery overheating or swelling is a reason to end the flight.

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 107.15(b)
Practice the Remote Pilot (Part 107) test →Timed 60-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
MORE ON OPERATIONS / EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

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.