To operate a rocket without FAA waiver, which propellant weight category is allowed?

To operate a rocket without FAA waiver, which propellant weight category is allowed?

• A. 4 ounces (113 grams)
• B. 4.4 ounces (125 grams)
• C. 1 pound (453 grams)
• D. 3.3 pounds (1500 grams)

Answer: (B)

No FAA waiver is needed for very small propellant charges because their energy release is considered low risk for airspace and bystanders. The limit that allows no waiver is 125 grams of propellant, which is about 4.4 ounces. That exact threshold is why the correct choice is 4.4 ounces (125 grams): it matches the official no-waiver limit. Anything larger than that would require coordinating with the FAA and/or the launch range to obtain a waiver. Remember, propellant weight refers to the motor’s propellant mass, not the rocket’s total weight.

No FAA waiver is needed for very small propellant charges because their energy release is considered low risk for airspace and bystanders. The limit that allows no waiver is 125 grams of propellant, which is about 4.4 ounces. That exact threshold is why the correct choice is 4.4 ounces (125 grams): it matches the official no-waiver limit. Anything larger than that would require coordinating with the FAA and/or the launch range to obtain a waiver. Remember, propellant weight refers to the motor’s propellant mass, not the rocket’s total weight.