What is the responsibility of the Remote Pilot when operating near manned aircraft?

The responsibility of the Remote Pilot when operating near manned aircraft is to yield the right of way to manned aircraft. This is a critical safety practice, as manned aircraft are generally larger, faster, and have more complex flight patterns compared to unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Yielding the right of way helps prevent collisions and ensures safe integration of UAS operations with traditional aviation.

This principle is grounded in aviation regulations, which emphasize that all pilots, including those operating UAS, must prioritize the safety of manned aircraft. By yielding the right of way, the Remote Pilot acknowledges the operational limitations of their UAS and acts in a manner that respects the established hierarchy in the airspace.

Understanding this responsibility is vital for Remote Pilots, as it reinforces the importance of situational awareness and proactive decision-making when flying near manned aircraft. It also underscores the collaborative nature of airspace usage, where all operators must contribute to safety. Maintaining altitude, flying higher, or strictly adhering to traffic patterns, while relevant to some extent, do not encompass the fundamental responsibility of yielding to manned aircraft in this context.