What is "waiver" in the context of UAS regulations?

In the context of UAS regulations, a waiver refers to an exception granted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allowing operators to conduct UAS operations outside the standard rules outlined in Part 107. This means that when a pilot needs to perform a specific operation that is not permitted under the standard regulations, they can apply for a waiver to obtain authorization for their intended use. The FAA evaluates these requests on a case-by-case basis, considering safety, operational requirements, and other relevant factors.

The other options do not accurately define a waiver. A request for permission to fly in restricted airspace is more likely categorized as a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) or other forms of authorization rather than a waiver. A temporary license for experimental UAS use refers to specific permissions for test flights, which is different from a waiver. Lastly, a standard operating procedure represents established protocols for safe operations rather than an exception to regulations. Thus, the correct understanding of a waiver is pivotal for UAS operators who seek flexibility in their operational capabilities while adhering to regulatory safety standards.