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Visual line of sight must be unaided vision

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 20 of 34 on Regulations / Operating Rules. ACS element UA.I.B.K12 · 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 in command operating without a visual observer plans to track the small unmanned aircraft by watching the live camera video on the control station display instead of looking at the aircraft itself. Under § 107.31, this plan

  1. Asatisfies the rule, because the control station video display is an accepted means of maintaining visual line of sight
  2. Bdoes not satisfy the rule; the aircraft must be seen with vision unaided by any device except corrective lenses
  3. Csatisfies the rule, provided the remote PIC also uses binoculars to check the aircraft's position at regular intervals
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. does not satisfy the rule; the aircraft must be seen with vision unaided by any device except corrective lenses

  • A — incorrect A video display is a device other than corrective lenses. Watching the display is not the unaided vision that § 107.31(a) requires.
  • B — correct § 107.31(a) requires the remote PIC, the visual observer if used, and the person manipulating the controls to see the unmanned aircraft with vision that is unaided by any device other than corrective lenses.
  • C — incorrect Binoculars are also a device other than corrective lenses, so adding them does not make the operation compliant with § 107.31(a).

BACKGROUND

Section 107.31 is the visual line of sight (VLOS) rule. With vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, the remote pilot in command (remote PIC), the visual observer if one is used, and the person manipulating the flight controls must be able to see the unmanned aircraft throughout the entire flight. The purpose is to know the aircraft's location; determine its attitude, altitude, and direction of flight; observe the airspace for other traffic or hazards; and determine that the aircraft does not endanger the life or property of another. Corrective lenses are defined in § 107.3 as spectacles or contact lenses. Paragraph (b) allows the VLOS ability to be exercised by either the remote PIC and the person on the controls, or by a visual observer.

STUDY TIP

Any optical or electronic aid other than glasses or contacts breaks VLOS. A camera feed can supplement, but never replace, direct sight of the aircraft.

KEY POINTS

  • VLOS must be maintained with vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses.
  • Corrective lenses means spectacles or contact lenses (§ 107.3).
  • The ability to see the aircraft must be exercised throughout the entire flight.

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 107.31(a)
  • 14 CFR 107.3, definition of corrective lenses
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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.