Part 107 Airspace Classifications

Part 107 of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations establishes various airspace classifications that affect drone operations in the United States. These classifications, outlined in the airspace structure, dictate where and how drones can fly while adhering to specific rules and restrictions.

The airspace classes outlined in Part 107 encompass several categories, each with its own set of regulations and requirements. Class G airspace, for instance, is the least restricted and typically extends from the surface to specific altitudes. Drones can operate in Class G airspace without specific air traffic control clearance, provided they follow Part 107 regulations and maintain visual line of sight (VLOS) with the drone.

Classes B, C, D, and E airspace, on the other hand, are more regulated and often require clearance from air traffic control before conducting drone operations. These classes primarily cover areas around airports or regions with significant air traffic. Operators flying drones in these spaces must obtain necessary permissions and adhere to specific altitude restrictions and communication protocols to ensure safe integration with manned aircraft.

Part 107 airspace classifications are critical for remote pilots to understand, as they dictate where drones can fly and the protocols necessary for safe operations. Adhering to these classifications ensures compliance with regulations and contributes to maintaining the safety and integrity of the national airspace system while allowing for the safe and efficient integration of drones into the airspace.