Drone students and operators
Remote Pilot in Command
The person who has final authority and responsibility for the operation and safety of a small unmanned aircraft operation conducted under Part 107.
This page is educational and does not replace the current FAA publication or regulation.
What it means in practice
The remote pilot in command is not simply the person holding the controller. The role carries responsibility for determining that the operation can be conducted safely and in compliance with the applicable rules.
Other people may manipulate the controls or assist as visual observers, but the remote PIC retains the final operational responsibility required by Part 107.
Why students confuse it
A crew can divide tasks without dividing final authority. Understanding that distinction helps prevent confusion about who must evaluate conditions, brief the crew, and stop an unsafe operation.