Part 107 Remote Pilot Test Lecture Notes

Key Concepts

• Runway Orientation:

  • Aircraft land and take off into the wind for better lift.
  • During descent, a plane makes a 45° entry, flying parallel to the runway on the left side (downwind leg).
  • Turns perpendicular (base leg) and then final approach for landing.

• Understanding Flight Patterns:

  • Midfield Left Downwind: The aircraft is on the left side of the runway from the pilot's perspective.
  • Runway Numbering:
    • North (36), East (9), South (18), West (27).
    • Runway numbers correspond to one-tenth of the magnetic azimuth of the centerline.

Solving Position Questions

1. Determine Runway Orientation:

   • Use a drawn aviation compass with North, East, South, West labeled.
   • Identify runway direction (e.g., Runway 13 is between 90° and 180°).

2. Determine Aircraft Position:

   • Midfield left implies aircraft is to the left side of the runway from the pilot's perspective.
   • Example: Midfield left downwind to Runway 13 implies aircraft is east of the runway.

Sample Questions and Solutions

• Question 1: Midfield left downwind to Runway 27. Aircraft is south of the runway.
• Question 2: Midfield left downwind to Runway 4. Aircraft is west of the runway.
• Question 3: Short final of Runway 18. Aircraft is north of the runway as it is approaching the runway end for landing.

Determining Aircraft Heading

• Heading Calculation for Runway Directions:
  • If runway number ≤ 18, add zero and then 180° to get opposite runway heading.
  • If runway number > 18, subtract 180°.
  • Example: Runway 12 (120° + 180°) gives opposite direction.
  • Example: Runway 22 (220° - 180°) gives heading of 40°.

Tips for Answering Test Questions

• Draw an aviation compass and map out cardinal directions.
• Think about aircraft landing and takeoff patterns.

Recap and Study Tips

• Take time to draw and map directions.
• Consider the perspective of aircraft landing and takeoff.
• Practice using sample questions.

• Questions or Clarifications: Post any additional queries in the comments for assistance.
• Best Wishes: Good luck with the drone pilot test preparation!