What is the upper GTOW limit of a small UAS?

What is the upper GTOW limit of a small UAS?

• A. Less than 55 pounds
• B. Less than 120 pounds
• C. Less than 75 pounds
• D. Less than 300 pounds

Answer: (A)

GTOW means the total weight of the drone at takeoff, including the aircraft itself and anything it’s carrying. For a small UAS, that takeoff weight must be less than 55 pounds. So the upper limit being less than 55 pounds is the correct concept, because this defines the boundary of what FAA classifies as a small UAS under Part 107. Any weight above 55 pounds would move the aircraft into a different category with different regulatory requirements, which is why the other options—being well above 55 pounds—aren’t applicable for small UAS.

GTOW means the total weight of the drone at takeoff, including the aircraft itself and anything it’s carrying. For a small UAS, that takeoff weight must be less than 55 pounds. So the upper limit being less than 55 pounds is the correct concept, because this defines the boundary of what FAA classifies as a small UAS under Part 107. Any weight above 55 pounds would move the aircraft into a different category with different regulatory requirements, which is why the other options—being well above 55 pounds—aren’t applicable for small UAS.