Applicability of certification procedures for products and articles

This regulation clarifies that small unmanned aircraft (drones) operating under Part 107 generally don't need to comply with Part 21's aircraft certification requirements. Part 21 establishes how aircraft, engines, and propellers must be designed, manufactured, and certified—a complex process typically required for manned aircraft.

However, there's one important exception: if you plan to operate your drone over people under the specific provisions of §107.140 (Category 2 or 3 operations), then Part 21 certification requirements do apply. This means those drones must meet formal design and manufacturing standards.

In practical terms, most recreational and commercial drone operations under Part 107 avoid the expensive and time-consuming certification process. But if you want to fly over crowds or assemblies of people beyond what Category 1 allows, you'll need a drone that has gone through proper FAA certification, significantly limiting your aircraft choices.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*