Defaulting to Part 107 When Flight Category is Uncertain
Verified from official sourcesRecreational Flyers & Community-Based Organizations | Federal Aviation Administration - What is a Recreational Flight?Version 2Effective -Verified 29 August 2026
In plain language
If you aren't sure whether your flight counts as recreational or not, play it safe and follow the Part 107 rules.
Requirement as structured
FAA guidance advises operators who are unsure which rules apply to a flight to assume they are flying under 14 CFR Part 107 and to meet all requirements of that rule.
Original regulatory text
When in doubt, assume Part 107. If you’re not sure which rules apply to your flight, assume you are flying under the Part 107 rule and ensure you meet all requirements of this rule .
Applies when
- country
- United States
- operation
- Part 107 small UAS operation
- operation regime
- part_107
- aircraft category
- small unmanned aircraft (under 55 lb)
- regulatory category
- General