AIM ¶ 11-1-1 — UAS Operations Overview
AIM 11-1-1 explains UAS rules: Part 107, recreational flyers under 49 USC 44809, and Part 91 UAS operations. Study guide for pilot students and checkrides.
In Plain English
AIM 11-1-1 introduces the regulatory framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Which rule applies depends on the type of operation, purpose of flight, and weight of the aircraft. The three main regulatory paths are:
- 14 CFR Part 107 (sUAS): Covers commercial and non-recreational operations using small UAS under 55 pounds. Examples include aerial photography, surveying, and other operations for hire.
- 49 USC 44809 (Recreational Flyers): Allows hobbyists to fly model or RC aircraft strictly for pleasure or recreation. Recreational UAS over 55 lbs may operate under a community-based organization (CBO) standards from fixed sites (see AIM 11-4-1c1).
- 14 CFR Part 91 UAS Operations: Covers public UAS (government) and civil UAS weighing 55 lbs or more Maximum Gross Operating Weight (MGOW). Note that Part 91 can also apply to UAS under 55 lbs in certain cases.
Understanding which set of rules applies is the first step before planning any UAS flight, because operating limits, pilot certification, and aircraft requirements differ significantly across these categories.
AIM Source Text
FAA AIM ¶ 11-1-111-1-1. 11-1-1. General
UAS operations are governed by the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and the United States Code (USC). The type of operation, purpose of the flight, and weight of the UAS all factor into the specific rule that governs UAS operations. 14 CFR part 107, Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Examples of 14 CFR part 107 operations include commercial aerial photography, commercial aerial survey, other operations for hire, and operations that are not conducted purely for pleasure/recreation. These operations will be referred to as part 107 operations. part 107 operations are limited to small UAS (sUAS) weighing less than 55 pounds. 49 USC 44809, Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft Operations. Recreational flyers operate unmanned or model aircraft for pleasure or recreation. These operations are to be referred to as Recreational Flyer operations. Recreational flyers typically operate small UAS or model also called radio-controlled (RC) aircraft. Recreational flyers operating UAS weighing more than 55 pounds may operate in compliance with standards and limitations developed by a CBO and from fixed sites, which are described in subparagraph 11-4-1 c 1 , Fixed Sites. 14 CFR part 91, UAS Operations. 14 CFR part 91 operations include public UAS, and civil UAS 55 pounds or more Maximum Gross Operating Weight (MGOW). These operations will be referred to as part 91 UAS operations in Chapter 11 . For more information on public UAS operations, the requirements for qualification as a public operator, and how aircraft and pilots are certified, refer to AC 00-1.1, Public Aircraft Operations—Manned and Unmanned. NOTE- 14 CFR part 91 operations can include UAS weighing less than 55 lbs. REFERENCE- 14 CFR Part 107, Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems. 49 USC 44809, Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft. FAA Order JO 7210.3, Chapter 5, Section 5, 14 CFR Part 91, UAS Operations. AC 00-1.1, Public Aircraft Operations—Manned and Unmanned.
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Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1What three factors determine which regulation governs a UAS operation?
Per AIM 11-1-1, the type of operation, the purpose of the flight, and the weight of the UAS determine the specific rule that applies.
Q2What weight limit applies to Part 107 operations, and what kinds of flights does Part 107 cover?
Per AIM 11-1-1, Part 107 is limited to small UAS weighing less than 55 pounds and covers operations such as commercial aerial photography, commercial aerial surveys, other operations for hire, and any flights not conducted purely for pleasure or recreation.
Q3Under what authority do recreational flyers operate, and what option exists for recreational UAS over 55 pounds?
Per AIM 11-1-1, recreational flyers operate under 49 USC 44809 for pleasure or recreation. Recreational UAS over 55 pounds may operate in compliance with standards and limitations developed by a community-based organization (CBO) from fixed sites, as described in AIM 11-4-1c1.
Related Paragraphs in AIM Chapter 11
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