What is the maximum total weight for a sUAS to be operated under Part 107 without needing specific exemptions?

The maximum total weight for a sUAS (small Unmanned Aircraft System) to be operated under Part 107 without requiring specific exemptions is 55 pounds. This weight limit includes the aircraft itself and any payload it carries. The Part 107 regulations are designed to provide a clear framework for the safe operation of small drones in the National Airspace System, and the weight limit helps ensure that these operations remain manageable both for safety and regulatory oversight.

Operating within this weight restriction allows sUAS operators to bypass the need for additional certifications or waivers that are necessary for heavier aircraft. Understanding this weight limit is crucial for operators to ensure compliance with federal regulations and avoid interferencing with manned aircraft operations. Thus, keeping the total weight below 55 pounds simplifies both the operational responsibilities and the regulatory requirements for sUAS operators.