Do FPV Pilots require a spotter?

[Pawpaw Woody]

I’m pretty sure yes is the answer but wanted to check!

 

[msinger]

They do if their eyes are covered.

 

[GFields]

Good information here

 

[Flycaster]

Yes.
Period...

 

[Rich QR]

In the USA, generally, yes, but perhaps not quite always.

Both Part 107 and Section 44809 require that the pilot maintain visual line of sight with the aircraft if a spotter isn't used. If the pilot is using goggles that obstruct his/her vision, then a spotter would be required.

But if you're flying indoors, then the FAA doesn't have jurisdiction, and neither Part 107 nor Section 44809 applies. Do what you want, but fly safely, because you still may be liable for injuries or property damage.

Perhaps the FAA could issue a waiver in some special limited circumstances. I've never tried to get a waiver, and I don't know the process, but my understanding is that it involves contacting the FAA and convincing them that your proposed method of doing things can provide at least as much safety as following the regulations would have provided. I think it sounds long, tedious, involved, and expensive, and I find it difficult to believe that getting a waiver would be any easier or cheaper than just hiring someone to act as a spotter. So I think it's kind of a ridiculous proposition, but it might work.

Finally, if you're flying outside of the USA, then learn and follow the rules of whatever agency has jurisdiction.

 

[Pawpaw Woody]

In the USA, generally, yes, but perhaps not quite always.

Both Part 107 and Section 44809 require that the pilot maintain visual line of sight with the aircraft if a spotter isn't used. If the pilot is using goggles that obstruct his/her vision, then a spotter would be required.

But if you're flying indoors, then the FAA doesn't have jurisdiction, and neither Part 107 nor Section 44809 applies. Do what you want, but fly safely, because you still may be liable for injuries or property damage.

Perhaps the FAA could issue a waiver in some special limited circumstances. I've never tried to get a waiver, and I don't know the process, but my understanding is that it involves contacting the FAA and convincing them that your proposed method of doing things can provide at least as much safety as following the regulations would have provided. I think it sounds long, tedious, involved, and expensive, and I find it difficult to believe that getting a waiver would be any easier or cheaper than just hiring someone to act as a spotter. So I think it's kind of a ridiculous proposition, but it might work.

Finally, if you're flying outside of the USA, then learn and follow the rules of whatever agency has jurisdiction.

Thanks!