The FAA's Part 107 rule governs routine, civil (non-recreational) operations of small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) within the United States. Rather than serving as a classification system for UAS based on attributes like size, range, or endurance, Part 107 acts as a regulatory framework layered on top of existing engineering categories. This means that while manufacturers and operators may classify drones by their physical and performance characteristics, Part 107 imposes additional operational constraints, Table 5, on how these aircraft can be used within the National Airspace System. Specifically, Part 107 applies to "small unmanned aircraft," which are defined as any unmanned aircraft weighing less than 55 pounds (25 kg) at takeoff, including all components and payloads attached to the aircraft.
Waivers and Authorizations: Expanding the Operating Envelope
Under FAA Part 107, operators can apply for waivers that permit unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to conduct missions that exceed standard regulatory limits—such as flying at night, operating over people, or beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). Additionally, operations within controlled airspace require prior authorization from the FAA. The waiver application process is designed to ensure that applicants present robust risk mitigation strategies and detailed procedural controls, demonstrating their ability to maintain the highest safety standards during expanded operations, Figure 10.
