Are UAVs required to have a transponder installed?

Are UAVs required to have a transponder installed?

• A. Yes, in all airspace.
• B. Only when operating in controlled airspace.
• C. No.
• D. Only manned aircraft require transponders.

Answer: (C)

Transponders are devices that respond to radar interrogations to identify aircraft. UAVs do not carry a universal transponder requirement; regulations for small drones focus on remote identification rather than a traditional transponder. This means most drone operations don’t need a transponder, even in controlled airspace, as long as you follow remote ID rules and obtain any necessary airspace permissions. Large or manned aircraft may require transponders, but that doesn’t apply to typical UAV operations.

Transponders are devices that respond to radar interrogations to identify aircraft. UAVs do not carry a universal transponder requirement; regulations for small drones focus on remote identification rather than a traditional transponder. This means most drone operations don’t need a transponder, even in controlled airspace, as long as you follow remote ID rules and obtain any necessary airspace permissions. Large or manned aircraft may require transponders, but that doesn’t apply to typical UAV operations.