For government-owned, contractor-operated drone assets, does the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) and her served agency get any relief from potential liability?

As far as the flight rules are concerned, when flying as a public aircraft, the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) is responsible (See 91.3(b)).  When flying as a civil aircraft, the RPIC is responsible (See 107.19).  When flying as a contractor to a public entity, refer to Advisory Circular 00-1.1B, Public Aircraft Operations, which provides information about the process you must go through to get public aircraft status given to you by the entity.  The RPIC and responsible person are responsible for compliance with the flight rules to ensure everyone's safety.

Still can't find what you are looking for? Please feel free to contact the UAS Support Center for general questions and comments.