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Duration of each scanning stop

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 13 of 20 on Operations / Physiology. ACS element UA.V.E.K6 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONWhen scanning the sky for other aircraft, how long does the Remote Pilot Study Guide say each stop of the scan should last?

  1. AAt least 5 seconds per stop
  2. BNo longer than 2 to 3 seconds
  3. CNo longer than 10 seconds, overlapping 10 degrees
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. No longer than 2 to 3 seconds

  • A — incorrect The study guide sets a maximum of 2 to 3 seconds per stop, not a minimum of 5 seconds.
  • B — correct The study guide states that the duration of each stop depends on the detail required, but no stop should last longer than 2 to 3 seconds.
  • C — incorrect The 10-degree figure is the recommended overlap between viewing points, but the time limit per stop is 2 to 3 seconds, not 10 seconds.

BACKGROUND

The Remote Pilot Study Guide explains that understanding how the eyes function helps a pilot use vision effectively. To scan effectively, pilots look from right to left or left to right, beginning at the greatest distance an object can be perceived and moving inward toward the aircraft. At each stop an area approximately 30 degrees wide is scanned. The duration of each stop depends on the detail required, but no stop should last longer than 2 to 3 seconds. When moving to the next viewing point, the pilot should overlap the previous field of view by 10 degrees.

STUDY TIP

Memorize the three scanning numbers together: 30 degrees wide, 2 to 3 seconds per stop, 10 degrees of overlap.

KEY POINTS

  • Scan in 30-degree segments from the greatest perceivable distance inward.
  • Each stop lasts no longer than 2 to 3 seconds.
  • Overlap the previous field of view by 10 degrees.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch9 "Vision and Flight" / "Scanning Techniques"
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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.