As the number of sUAS batteries increases, what must be reduced, so that the aircraft remains below the 55-pound requirement?

• A. Payload
• B. Flight time
• C. Altitude
• D. Battery weight

Answer: (A)

Remember that the 55-pound limit is the maximum takeoff weight the aircraft can have. The total weight is the sum of the airframe, payload, batteries, and any other equipment. If you increase the number of batteries, the overall weight goes up. To stay under that 55-pound cap, you offset the extra battery weight by carrying less payload—the mass you’re hauling for mission equipment or cargo. Reducing altitude or flight time doesn’t change the aircraft’s weight, and while you could swap to lighter batteries, the direct way to stay under the limit when battery count rises is to reduce payload.