Public drone operations conducted by government agencies may be conducted under which authorization?

• A. Part 107 or a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA)
• B. Part 61 pilot certificate
• C. Visual Flight Rules only
• D. Special Airworthiness Certificate required

Answer: (A)

Public government drone operations can be authorized in two ways: under Part 107, the general small UAS rules, or under a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) specifically for public aircraft operations. Part 107 provides the framework for operating a small UAS under standard rules, with remote pilot certification and possible waivers as needed. The COA path is designed for government agencies and allows mission-specific authorization in designated airspace, addressing the unique needs of public safety, law enforcement, and other public missions. Both routes are recognized by the FAA for public drone work, depending on the mission and airspace involved.

The other options don’t fit: Part 61 applies to piloting manned aircraft and isn’t the pathway for small UAS; Visual Flight Rules is a flying rule set for crewed aircraft and doesn’t govern UAS operations; a Special Airworthiness Certificate is for certain unusual or experimental aircraft and isn’t the standard route for typical government drone operations.