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Medical condition that interferes with safe operation

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 3 of 20 on Operations / Physiology. ACS element UA.V.E.K7 · 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 develops a physical condition that the pilot knows would interfere with the safe operation of the small unmanned aircraft system. Under § 107.17, what must the pilot do?

  1. AContinue, provided a visual observer is used
  2. BNot act as remote pilot in command
  3. CObtain a medical certificate before flying
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Not act as remote pilot in command

  • A — incorrect Section 107.17 does not allow a visual observer to substitute for the pilot's fitness; the same prohibition also applies to the visual observer.
  • B — correct Section 107.17 states that no person may act as remote pilot in command, manipulate the flight controls, or serve as visual observer or direct participant if he or she knows or has reason to know of a physical or mental condition that would interfere with safe operation.
  • C — incorrect Part 107 imposes no medical certificate requirement; § 107.17 relies on the person's own knowledge of a disqualifying condition.

BACKGROUND

Section 107.17 of 14 CFR part 107 provides that no person may manipulate the flight controls of a small unmanned aircraft system, act as remote pilot in command (PIC), act as visual observer, or be a direct participant in the operation if he or she knows or has reason to know of a physical or mental condition that would interfere with safe operation. The Remote Pilot Study Guide adds that part 107 does not allow operation if the remote PIC, person manipulating the controls, or visual observer is unable to safely carry out his or her responsibilities, and that certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, may create a risk. It is the remote PIC's responsibility to determine that a medical condition is under control and to ensure crewmembers are not participating while impaired.

STUDY TIP

Remember that § 107.17 is self-assessed: the trigger is knowing or having reason to know of an interfering condition, not a medical certificate.

KEY POINTS

  • § 107.17 bars acting as remote PIC, controls operator, visual observer, or direct participant with an interfering condition.
  • The standard is knowing or having reason to know.
  • The remote PIC must ensure no crewmember participates while impaired.

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 107.17
  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch9 "Introduction"
Practice the Remote Pilot (Part 107) test →Timed 60-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
MORE ON OPERATIONS / PHYSIOLOGY

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.