Part 107 Study Guide
Loading & Performance
Understand how payload, temperature, humidity, and altitude affect sUAS performance. Covers density altitude calculations and battery/endurance planning.
20 questions in this topic
Sample Questions
How does adding payload to a multirotor affect its performance?
More weight demands more power from the motors, reducing endurance, maneuverability, and safety margins — even when within published limits. Always account for payload weight in preflight planning. FAA-G-8082-22 Ch. 4.
Under Part 107, the maximum allowable takeoff weight for a small UAS (including payload and attachments) is:
14 CFR 107.3 defines a 'small unmanned aircraft' as weighing less than 55 lbs (25 kg) at takeoff, including everything attached to or carried by the aircraft.
14 CFR 107.3
Flying a sUAS at a high-elevation site on a hot day, you should expect:
High density altitude = thinner air = less lift per RPM. Props must spin faster, drawing more current and reducing flight time. Battery chemistry also performs worse in extreme heat. FAA-G-8082-22 Ch. 4.
💡 Memory tip
Hot + high elevation = thin air = motors working overtime. Think of it as asking your drone to sprint at altitude — same effort gets you less result.
The center of gravity (CG) of a sUAS is critical because:
CG affects stability in all aircraft types. An aft or laterally offset CG on a multirotor causes the flight controller to constantly compensate, wasting battery and potentially exceeding control authority. FAA-G-8082-22 Ch. 4.
💡 Memory tip
CG is the drone's balance point. Off-CG is like carrying a heavy grocery bag on one side — the flight controller compensates, but it drains energy and limits control.
A remote pilot is planning to attach a camera gimbal and a LiDAR sensor to their sUAS. The combined weight at takeoff is 52 lbs. Is this operation legal under Part 107?
The only weight limit under Part 107 is 55 lbs at takeoff. No special waiver is needed for payload as long as total weight stays below that limit and all other rules are followed. 14 CFR 107.3.
14 CFR 107.3
Ready to practice all topics?
The full exam draws from all 8 topics with weighted distribution — just like the real test.
Start Full Practice ExamLoading & Performance FAQ
What factors increase density altitude? ▾
Density altitude increases (performance decreases) with higher temperature, higher humidity, and higher elevation above sea level. High DA means the air is less dense, reducing propeller efficiency and motor output.
How does payload weight affect sUAS endurance? ▾
Additional payload increases the power required to maintain hover, which increases current draw from the battery. This directly reduces flight endurance. Always verify payload weight against manufacturer specifications and test hover performance before operational flights.