Section 7. Permissions and Certifications to Fly
7.1 - 14 CFR Part 107
CDRP will operate UAS in accordance with 14 CFR Part 107, including but not limited to pilot certificate requirements, airspace restrictions, aircraft limitations, and operational rules.
7.1.1 - Waivers and Authorizations
CDRP will maintain a current Daytime Operations Waiver (14 CFR 107.29) and necessary Airspace Waivers (14 CFR 107.41).
Any other waivers required by the FAA or Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will be applied for in a timely manner, and remain accessible for the duration of applicable flight operations.
7.2 - Certificate of Authorization (COA)
Operation a UAS as a Public Aircraft Operation (PAO) provides some flexibility from the 14 CFR Part 107, including default nighttime operation. CDRP will obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Authorization (COA) prior to conducting UAS operations as a public aircraft. CDRP will operate in compliance with all requirements and stipulations contained in the COA at all times.
7.2.1 - Exceptions to 14 CFR Part 107 Rules
When operating as a public aircraft and to simplify crew training, CDRP will operate in compliance with 14 CFR Part 107 rules with the following exceptions:
- A Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is not required. The RPIC must be certified as a CDRP Remote Pilot in Command, and must meet the requirements specified in the FAA Certificate of Authorization.
- When operating as a public aircraft under a Certificate of Authorization, UAS may be operated over people in a life safety emergency. Flights over people under the conditions specified in the Certificate of Authorization require the approval of the CDRP/DIRT UAS Program Manager.
7.2.2 - Emergency Certificate of Authorization / Special Governmental Interest
When operating in support of an emergency response or recovery effort, an Emergency Certificate of Authorization (E-COA) may be obtained from the FAA. The E-COA will authorize existing airframes and/or systems defined in an existing COA to operate in new airspace under specified guidelines.
The E-COA process requires the authorization of a response or recovery agency.
7.3 - Notice to Airmen
If required by the COA or at the request of ATO, CDRP will request a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) 24 hours in advance of UAS operations. If 24 hours notice is not possible, CDRP will file the NOTAM as quickly as practical.
7.4 -- Selection of Part 107 or COA
The RPIC will declare prior to each flight which set of regulation will govern that flight: Part 107 (Commercial regulations) or COA (Public aircraft operations). This determination can be made by the PIC prior to each launch.