Group 4 UAS weight and speed characteristics include which of the following?

• A. >1320 lbs, any airspeed, <FL180
• B. 0-20 lbs, <1200 ft AGL
• C. 21-55 lbs, <3500 ft AGL
• D. <1320 lbs, <FL180

Answer: (A)

Weight-based UAS groupings set how an unmanned system can operate in airspace, balancing risk, control, and regulatory oversight. Group 4 defines the heaviest UAS, with a maximum takeoff weight greater than 1,320 pounds. Because these are large systems, the focus is on managing airspace integration rather than limiting speed, so there isn’t a speed restriction implied; the key limit is staying below flight level 180 (18,000 feet) to avoid the complexities of high-altitude controlled airspace and to align with certification and ATC requirements.

That’s why the option describing a weight above 1,320 pounds, no speed restriction, and operation below FL180 is the best fit. The other choices describe lighter weight ranges that fall into different groups and come with lower altitude ceilings, which do not apply to Group 4.