FAR 61.8 — UAS Operations Inapplicability
FAR 61.8 explains why operations conducted under Part 107 (small UAS) cannot be credited toward Part 61 pilot certification or rating requirements.
FAR 61.8 is short but important: any flight activity conducted under Part 107 (the small unmanned aircraft systems / drone rule) cannot be used to satisfy the requirements of Part 61.
In plain terms:
- Time you log as a remote pilot flying a small UAS under Part 107 does not count toward aeronautical experience for a private, commercial, instrument, or ATP certificate.
- It also doesn't count toward flight reviews, currency, or rating requirements under Part 61.
- Part 61 deals with the certification of pilots flying manned aircraft; Part 107 is a separate regulatory regime for small drones.
Why it matters operationally: students sometimes assume drone hours can offset required flight training. They can't. Every hour of training, solo, cross-country, and night experience required by Part 61 must be accomplished in a manned aircraft (or approved simulator/FTD where allowed). Plan your training and logbook accordingly.
Five FAA-written-style questions. Instant explanations, every answer cites its source — no account needed.
You are flying VFR in Class E airspace at 8,500 feet MSL during the day. What are your minimum visibility and cloud clearance requirements?