What is the weight threshold above which payload must be reduced to stay under the 55-pound limit?

What is the weight threshold above which payload must be reduced to stay under the 55-pound limit?

• A. 25 pounds
• B. 55 pounds
• C. 65 pounds
• D. 75 pounds

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that small UAS have a maximum takeoff weight of 55 pounds. To stay within that limit, the total weight of the aircraft (airframe plus payload) must never exceed 55 pounds, so you must reduce payload as soon as the combined weight would go over that limit. In other words, the threshold at which you need to start trimming payload is the 55-pound limit itself. For example, if the airframe weighs 20 pounds, you may carry up to 35 pounds of payload; if it weighs 50 pounds, you may carry up to 5 pounds; if the airframe itself is already near or above 55 pounds, little or no payload can be carried. The other numbers don’t reflect the legal maximum.

The main idea is that small UAS have a maximum takeoff weight of 55 pounds. To stay within that limit, the total weight of the aircraft (airframe plus payload) must never exceed 55 pounds, so you must reduce payload as soon as the combined weight would go over that limit. In other words, the threshold at which you need to start trimming payload is the 55-pound limit itself. For example, if the airframe weighs 20 pounds, you may carry up to 35 pounds of payload; if it weighs 50 pounds, you may carry up to 5 pounds; if the airframe itself is already near or above 55 pounds, little or no payload can be carried. The other numbers don’t reflect the legal maximum.