During an automated small UAS flight, AC 107-2A §§ 5.2.3.1–5.2.3.2 require the remote pilot in command to —

Why: AC 107-2A § 5.2.3.1 requires the remote PIC to retain the ability to direct the automated aircraft — climb, descend, land now, proceed to a new waypoint, enter an orbit, or return home — to avoid a hazard or give right-of-way. § 5.2.3.2 clarifies that automation does not allow a person to operate more than one small unmanned aircraft simultaneously.

• Command authority cannot be handed off to the autopilot; the remote PIC remains responsible for the aircraft under § 107.19 even during automated flight.
• § 107.35's prohibition on operating more than one small unmanned aircraft at a time applies regardless of whether control is manual or automated; § 5.2.3.2 states automation does not create an exception.