Definition
FAR Part 107 is the set of United States regulations that governs the commercial use of small drones. Issued by the Federal Aviation Administration, it lays out the rules operators must follow when flying drones for work rather than purely for recreation.
The rules cover who can fly, how, when, and where, aiming to keep drone operations safe and integrated with other airspace users. Anyone using drones commercially in the US generally needs to comply with Part 107.
In simple terms, FAR Part 107 is the rulebook for flying drones commercially in the United States.
How It Works
Under Part 107, a commercial drone operator must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate, earned by passing an aeronautical knowledge test. The rules then set operating limits, such as keeping the drone within visual line of sight, flying below a set altitude, and avoiding certain airspace without authorisation.
Operators must also follow rules on flying over people, at night, and near airports, with waivers available for some operations. Staying compliant means understanding these requirements and flying within them for every commercial mission.
Applications
FAR Part 107 applies to commercial drone work across surveying, construction, real estate, agriculture, and inspection in the US. Anyone capturing drone mapping data, aerial imagery, or inspections for business purposes operates under its rules, making it fundamental to professional drone use.
Benefits
- A clear framework for legal commercial drone use.
- Safer integration of drones into airspace.
- Defined pilot certification standards.
- Waiver options for advanced operations.
- Confidence and compliance for drone businesses.
Related Terms
- UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)
- UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System)
- Drone Mapping
- Line of Sight
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs FAR Part 107?
Anyone flying a small drone commercially in the United States generally needs to comply with Part 107 and hold a Remote Pilot Certificate.
What are the main rules of Part 107?
Key rules include keeping the drone within visual line of sight, staying below altitude limits, and avoiding restricted airspace without authorisation.
How do you get a Part 107 certificate?
You earn a Remote Pilot Certificate by passing the FAA’s aeronautical knowledge test.
Does Part 107 apply to recreational flying?
No. Part 107 governs commercial operations, while recreational flying follows separate rules.
About Track3D
Track3D helps teams turn compliant drone operations into accurate digital twins and reality capture insights. Learn more at Track3D.
