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Weight limit in the small unmanned aircraft definition

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 10 of 13 on Regulations / General. ACS element UA.I.A.K2 · 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 § 107.3, a small unmanned aircraft is an unmanned aircraft that weighs how much on takeoff, including everything on board or otherwise attached?

  1. A55 pounds or less
  2. BLess than 55 pounds, excluding any payload
  3. CLess than 55 pounds
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Less than 55 pounds

  • A — incorrect The definition uses "less than 55 pounds"; an aircraft weighing exactly 55 pounds is not a small unmanned aircraft under § 107.3.
  • B — incorrect § 107.3 counts everything that is on board or otherwise attached to the aircraft, so payload is included in the weight.
  • C — correct § 107.3 defines a small unmanned aircraft as one weighing less than 55 pounds on takeoff, including everything on board or otherwise attached.

BACKGROUND

§ 107.3 supplies the definitions that apply throughout 14 CFR part 107. A small unmanned aircraft is defined as an unmanned aircraft weighing less than 55 pounds on takeoff, including everything that is on board or otherwise attached to the aircraft. The phrase "less than" matters: 55 pounds exactly is outside the definition. Because payload, batteries, cameras and any other attachments count toward the takeoff weight, a remote pilot must consider the full loaded weight, not the empty aircraft. A small unmanned aircraft system (small UAS) is the aircraft plus the associated elements, such as communication links and control components, required for safe and efficient operation in the national airspace system.

STUDY TIP

Remember the exact wording: less than 55 pounds on takeoff, with everything attached included. Choices that say "55 pounds or less" or exclude payload are traps.

KEY POINTS

  • Small unmanned aircraft: less than 55 pounds on takeoff.
  • Everything on board or attached counts toward the weight.
  • The small UAS includes the aircraft and its associated control and communication elements.

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 107.3 (definition of small unmanned aircraft)
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MORE ON REGULATIONS / GENERAL

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.