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Visibility distance of anti-collision lighting at night

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 12 of 17 on Operations / Maintenance and Inspection. ACS element UA.V.F.K5 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONUnder § 107.29(a), anti-collision lighting on a small unmanned aircraft operated at night must be visible for at least what distance?

  1. A5 statute miles
  2. B3 statute miles
  3. C1 nautical mile, measured from the control station
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. 3 statute miles

  • A — incorrect The regulation specifies 3 statute miles, not 5.
  • B — correct § 107.29(a)(2) requires lighted anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles with a flash rate sufficient to avoid a collision.
  • C — incorrect The requirement is stated in statute miles, is 3 miles, and is not referenced to the control station.

BACKGROUND

Section 107.29 governs operation at night. Under paragraph (a), no person may operate a small unmanned aircraft system at night unless the remote pilot in command has completed the initial knowledge test or training under § 107.65 after April 6, 2021, and the aircraft has lighted anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles with a flash rate sufficient to avoid a collision. The same lighting requirement applies during civil twilight under paragraph (b). Confirming that the anti-collision light is installed, charged and functioning is therefore a necessary part of the preflight inspection for a night operation.

STUDY TIP

Use the same number, 3 statute miles, for both night anti-collision lighting and the minimum flight visibility in § 107.51(c), but keep the two rules separate.

KEY POINTS

  • Night operations require lighted anti-collision lighting.
  • The lighting must be visible for at least 3 statute miles.
  • It must have a flash rate sufficient to avoid a collision.

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 107.29(a)(2)
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MORE ON OPERATIONS / MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION

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.