Question

(Refer to Figure 20, Area 3). With ATC authorization, you are operating your small unmanned aircraft approximately 4 SM southeast of Elizabeth City Regional Airport (ECG). What hazard is indicated to be in that area?

1) High density military operations in the vicinity
2) Unmarked balloon on a cable up to 3,008 feet AGL
3) Unmarked balloon on a cable up to 3,008 feet MSL

Answer 1

The hazard in the area southeast of Elizabeth City Regional Airport (ECG) is an unmarked balloon on a cable up to 3,008 feet AGL. It is critical for safe operation to be mindful of this when piloting a UAV in the vicinity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student has asked about a hazard approximately 4 SM southeast of Elizabeth City Regional Airport (ECG). According to the information provided, the hazard indicated in that area is an unmarked balloon on a cable up to 3,008 feet AGL (Above Ground Level). It is essential for any pilot or operator of an unmanned aircraft to be aware of such hazards for safe operation within the airspace. Pilots must adhere to any ATC instructions and should always maintain awareness of their altitude relative to the hazard to ensure they do not pose a risk to the balloon or to themselves.

Answer 2

The indicated hazard near Elizabeth City Regional Airport (ECG) for a small unmanned aircraft operating 4 SM southeast is an unmarked balloon on a cable up to 3,008 feet AGL.

Step-by-step explanation:

The operation of a small unmanned aircraft system (UAS) near Elizabeth City Regional Airport (ECG). When analyzing potential hazards in this region, it is essential to refer to specific aviation charts that identify various types of airspace and potential obstructions. Based on the given options in the question, the hazard indicated for Area 3 is an unmarked balloon on a cable up to 3,008 feet AGL (Above Ground Level). This poses a significant risk for any aerial operation within the vicinity since the cable could be difficult to see and may not be prominently marked, increasing the risk of a collision for low-flying aircraft, including drones.

It is crucial for UAS operators to be aware of such hazards, along with understanding airspace classifications, temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), and the presence of high-intensity military operations areas (MOAs). The proper identification of 'up to 3,008 feet AGL' is also important because it differentiates from 'MSL' (Mean Sea Level), which is used for altitude measurements that are referenced from sea level, not the ground directly below the hazard.

The operator must adhere to all airspace regulations and obtain the appropriate clearances or notifications when operating in the vicinity of such hazards, in accordance with FAA regulations and guidelines for UAS flight.