Part 107 Waivers (2026): US Drone Pilot Guide

Have you ever wondered why some drone pilots seem to be doing things that you *know* are against the rules? Flying over people? At night? They probably have a secret weapon: a Part 107 waiver. These waivers are your golden ticket to expanding your drone operations beyond the standard FAA regulations.

Understanding Part 107 Waivers: Your Key to Unlocking Drone Potential

A Part 107 waiver is an official authorization from the FAA allowing a drone pilot to deviate from certain restrictions outlined in Part 107 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. Think of it as a "get out of jail free" card for specific rules, allowing you to perform operations that would otherwise be illegal. Pilot Mike from Austin discovered this firsthand. He wanted to inspect bridges, but the work required flying closer than 500 feet to some structures. The solution? A well-crafted Part 107 waiver.

But don't think you can just scribble a note and send it in. The FAA takes these requests seriously. You'll need a solid understanding of US drone regulations and a meticulously prepared drone waiver application to convince them your proposed operation is safe. For more details on Part 107 requirements, check out our comprehensive Part 107 guide.

Commonly Requested Waivers: What Can You Do?

The possibilities are vast, but some waivers are more frequently requested than others. Knowing these can help you tailor your operations and prepare a stronger application. Here's a rundown of some of the most popular:

• Operations Over People: This is a big one. Allows you to fly over people, a major advantage for events, news gathering, and urban inspections.
• Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS): Enables you to fly drones beyond your direct line of sight, crucial for long-range inspections, delivery services, and agricultural surveys.
• Night Operations: Permits flying at night, opening doors for security, infrastructure monitoring, and cinematic shots.
• Operations from a Moving Vehicle: Useful for inspections of roads, railways, and pipelines.
• Operations of Multiple sUAS: Allows one pilot to operate multiple drones simultaneously.

Each waiver requires a specific justification demonstrating how you'll mitigate the risks associated with the deviation. The more thoroughly you address these concerns, the better your chances of approval.

The Waiver Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to take the plunge? The application process can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it much easier. Remember, a well-prepared application is your best defense against rejection.

1. Identify the Specific Regulation: Clearly state which Part 107 regulation you need a waiver from.
2. Develop a Detailed Operational Plan: Outline every aspect of your proposed operation, including location, altitude, flight path, and emergency procedures.
3. Conduct a Thorough Risk Assessment: Identify potential hazards and detail how you'll mitigate them. This is arguably the most important part.
4. Propose Mitigations: Describe the specific safety measures you'll implement to minimize risks. This could include using specialized equipment, employing additional personnel, or implementing specific flight procedures.
5. Submit Your Application: File your application through the FAA's DroneZone website.

Pro Tip: Don't just say you'll be safe. *Show* them. Use data, statistics, and industry best practices to back up your claims. For example, if applying for a waiver to fly over people, specify the type of drone you'll use (one with propeller guards), the altitude you'll maintain, and the density of the population you'll be flying over.

The Art of Persuasion: Crafting a Winning Application

Submitting a waiver application isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about persuading the FAA that your proposed operation is safe and in the public interest. Here's where your skills as a drone pilot and a communicator come into play.

Emphasize safety above all else. Use clear, concise language, and avoid jargon. Provide concrete examples and quantifiable data to support your claims. Show the FAA that you've thought through every possible scenario and have a plan to address any potential risks. One mistake that many pilots make is failing to thoroughly address all the potential risks. The result? A delayed or denied application.

Consider consulting with a drone law expert. They can provide valuable insights into the FAA's expectations and help you craft a compelling application.

Remember that the FAA is concerned about safety. Explain how your operation will benefit the public, whether it's through infrastructure inspection, environmental monitoring, or emergency response. Make sure your drone compliance is pristine. If the FAA sees that you've had prior infractions, they will be less likely to grant a waiver.

Staying Compliant: Even With a Waiver

Even with a Part 107 waiver in hand, you're not completely free from FAA regulations. You still need to adhere to all other applicable rules and regulations. This includes maintaining your Remote Pilot Certificate, registering your drone, and complying with airspace restrictions.

Think of the waiver as a modification to the standard rules, not a complete exemption. You are still responsible for operating safely and responsibly. Keep a copy of your waiver readily available during all operations, and be prepared to present it to law enforcement or FAA officials upon request. Ensure your Remote ID is working correctly, as outlined in our Remote ID Compliance: 2026 FAA Guide for US Drone Pilots.

Don't let the complexities of the waiver process discourage you. With careful planning, a thorough understanding of the regulations, and a persuasive application, you can unlock new possibilities for your drone operations and take your business to new heights.