Part 107 Airport Operations
Updated October 27, 2026
Drones must not interfere with airport traffic (§ 107.43), and the Part 107 test expects you to understand how airports work: where planes fly in the pattern, how runways are numbered and how pilots communicate. Here’s what to know, followed by free practice questions.
Runway numbers
A runway’s number is its magnetic direction rounded to the nearest 10 degrees, with the last zero dropped. Runway 9 points about 090° (east) and Runway 27 points about 270° (west). The two ends of a runway differ by 18, such as 9 and 27, or 18 and 36.
The traffic pattern
Airplanes fly a standard rectangle around the runway, with left turns unless markings or charts say otherwise. The legs are:
- Upwind (parallel to the runway, flying in the landing direction, after takeoff)
- Crosswind
- Downwind (parallel to the runway, opposite the landing direction)
- Base
- Final (lined up with the runway to land)
Radio and CTAF
At airports without an operating control tower, pilots announce their position on the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF). A remote pilot can listen on CTAF to know where manned aircraft are. Drones yield to manned aircraft at all times.
NOTAMs and TFRs
- NOTAMs (Notices to Air Missions) give time-critical information, such as closed runways or hazards.
- Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) close airspace for things like major events, VIP movements and disasters. Check NOTAMs and TFRs before every flight.
Free airport operations practice questions
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An airplane is landing on Runway 27. In which direction is it pointing?Answer: ARunway numbers are the magnetic heading rounded to the nearest 10° with the last zero dropped, so Runway 27 points about 270°, roughly west.
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What is the opposite end of Runway 9?Answer: BThe two ends of a runway differ by 180°, so the numbers differ by 18: 9 + 18 = 27.
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In a standard traffic pattern, which leg is flown parallel to the runway in the opposite direction of landing?Answer: CThe downwind leg runs parallel to the runway, opposite the landing direction. Pilots then turn to base and final.
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Unless otherwise indicated, which direction are turns in a standard traffic pattern?Answer: AStandard traffic patterns use left turns unless markings or charts show right-hand traffic.
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What is the purpose of the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF)?Answer: DAt non-towered airports, pilots self-announce on CTAF. A remote pilot can listen to know where manned aircraft are.
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Where should a remote pilot check for temporary flight restrictions before flying?Answer: BTFRs are issued as NOTAMs and can appear at short notice, so check them before every flight.
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What does a segmented circle at an airport show?Answer: CA segmented circle shows traffic pattern indicators and often contains a wind cone or other wind indicator.
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What does ATIS provide?Answer: DATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service) is a continuous broadcast of recorded, non-control information such as weather, active runways and NOTAMs.
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Which publication contains detailed information about public airports, such as runways and frequencies?Answer: AThe Chart Supplement (formerly the Airport/Facility Directory) lists details for airports, including runways, frequencies and services.
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Traffic pattern altitude at many airports is typically about:Answer: CA common traffic pattern altitude is about 1,000 feet above ground level, though it varies. Check the Chart Supplement for each airport.
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What should a remote pilot do when flying near a non-towered airport?Answer: BRemote pilots must not interfere with airport operations or traffic patterns and must yield to manned aircraft. Monitoring the CTAF helps track nearby traffic.
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A wind sock is fully extended. What does this suggest?Answer: CA fully extended wind sock indicates a strong wind. A limp sock means calm conditions.
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Which UNICOM use is correct?Answer: DUNICOM is a non-government radio station that can provide airport advisory information. It doesn't give ATC instructions or airspace authorizations.
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What do runway numbers represent?Answer: ARunway numbers are the magnetic direction rounded to the nearest 10 degrees, with the last zero dropped. Runway 27 points about 270°.
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A remote pilot hears on CTAF that an airplane is entering the downwind leg. What should the pilot do?Answer: BDrones must yield the right of way to all manned aircraft. Knowing where traffic is in the pattern helps you stay clear.
Pass the FAA Part 107 drone test on your first try
- All 308 questions across regulations, airspace, weather, loading and operations
- An explanation for every answer, with the rule or FAA source behind it
- Questions on the real test's figures: the FAA's sectional charts, METARs, TAFs and load factor chart, zoomable on any screen