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Reducing anti-collision light intensity at night

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 13 of 17 on Operations / Maintenance and Inspection. ACS element UA.V.F.K5 · 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 night operation, a remote pilot in command determines that, because of the operating conditions, the aircraft's anti-collision lighting is so bright that it degrades safety. Under § 107.29, what may the remote pilot do?

  1. AExtinguish the lighting as long as a visual observer keeps the aircraft in sight
  2. BReduce the intensity of the lighting, but not extinguish it
  3. CExtinguish the lighting for the remainder of the flight
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Reduce the intensity of the lighting, but not extinguish it

  • A — incorrect The regulation expressly says the lighting may not be extinguished; using a visual observer does not change that.
  • B — correct § 107.29(a)(2) allows the remote pilot in command to reduce the intensity of, but not extinguish, the anti-collision lighting when it is in the interest of safety.
  • C — incorrect § 107.29 permits reducing intensity only; turning the lighting off at night is prohibited.

BACKGROUND

Section 107.29(a)(2) requires lighted anti-collision lighting at night that is visible for at least 3 statute miles. The same paragraph gives the remote pilot in command limited discretion: he or she may reduce the intensity of, but may not extinguish, the anti-collision lighting if he or she determines that, because of operating conditions, it would be in the interest of safety to do so. Paragraph (b) repeats this allowance for civil twilight. A preflight inspection for night operations should confirm that the light can be dimmed if needed without being switched off.

STUDY TIP

The phrase to remember is "reduce the intensity of, but may not extinguish."

KEY POINTS

  • Anti-collision lighting is mandatory at night and during civil twilight.
  • The remote pilot in command may dim it when operating conditions make that safer.
  • The lighting may never be extinguished during the operation.

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 107.29(a)(2)
  • 14 CFR 107.29(b)
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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.