### Question
How does the law define unmanned aircraft system?


### Answer
Under *49 U.S.C. § 44801*, **unmanned aircraft system** is defined as:

> an unmanned aircraft and associated elements (including communication links and the components that control the unmanned aircraft) that are required for the operator to operate safely and efficiently in the national airspace system

#### Citation:
  - *49 U.S.C. § 44801*
  - Heading: **SUBTITLE VII-AVIATION PROGRAMS > PART A-AIR COMMERCE AND SAFETY > subpart iii-safety > CHAPTER 448-UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS**

