1.10 Preflight Familiarization and Actions
Key Takeaways
- The Remote PIC must assess the operating environment AND verify aircraft condition before EVERY flight.
- Preflight checks must include operating environment, aircraft condition, communication links, and crew briefing.
- Check for TFRs, NOTAMs, weather, airspace requirements, and ground hazards before each flight.
- Communication links (command, telemetry, video) between control station and aircraft must be verified.
- While not all recordkeeping is required, logging flights and documenting anomalies is best practice.
1.10 Preflight Familiarization and Actions (§107.49)
Before every flight, the Remote PIC must conduct a thorough preflight assessment covering the operating environment, aircraft condition, and all factors that could affect safety. This section covers the regulatory requirements and best practices for preflight operations.
Required Preflight Actions (§107.49)
Prior to flight, the Remote PIC must:
- Assess the operating environment — considering risks to people and property on the ground or in the air
- Ensure the operating environment is safe — within the limitations of the sUAS
- Verify the sUAS is in a condition for safe operation — including all links between control station and aircraft
- Ensure all persons involved know their roles — Remote PIC, VO, person manipulating controls
- Check for any flight restrictions — TFRs, NOTAMs, airspace requirements
Operating Environment Assessment
Before each flight, evaluate:
| Factor | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Weather | Current conditions and forecasts; visibility, wind, precipitation, cloud ceiling |
| Airspace | Class of airspace; need for authorization; nearby airports/heliports |
| Ground hazards | People, vehicles, buildings, power lines, trees, animals |
| Electromagnetic interference | Power lines, cell towers, radio transmitters that could affect control links |
| Obstacles | Towers, buildings, cranes, trees, power lines within the operating area |
| NOTAMs | Active Notices to Air Missions for the area |
| TFRs | Temporary Flight Restrictions (presidential movement, disasters, sporting events) |
| Other air traffic | Helicopter routes, low-flying aircraft, nearby drone operations |
Aircraft Preflight Inspection
A thorough preflight inspection should include:
Airframe and Structure:
- Check for cracks, loose components, or damage
- Verify propellers are securely attached and undamaged
- Inspect landing gear for damage
- Check all screws, bolts, and fasteners
Electronics and Avionics:
- Verify firmware is current
- Check GPS signal acquisition
- Test control link between controller and aircraft
- Verify Return-to-Home (RTH) settings
- Check compass calibration status
Battery:
- Verify battery charge level is adequate for the planned flight plus reserve
- Inspect battery for swelling, damage, or deformation
- Check battery connections are secure
- Note battery temperature (extreme cold/heat affects performance)
Payload:
- Verify payload is securely attached
- Confirm total weight is within limits
- Check that payload does not obstruct sensors or propellers
- Verify center of gravity is within acceptable range
Control Station:
- Verify controller battery charge
- Check display brightness and functionality
- Test control inputs (sticks, buttons, switches)
- Verify tablet/phone mount is secure
Communication Links Check
The Remote PIC must ensure all communication links between the control station and the aircraft are functioning properly. This includes:
- Command and control link — the primary link that sends flight commands
- Telemetry link — receives data from the aircraft (battery, altitude, GPS, etc.)
- Video link — if using a camera feed for situational awareness (NOT for maintaining VLOS)
Post-Flight Procedures
While not specifically required by regulation, good operational practice includes:
- Log the flight — duration, location, purpose, any notable events
- Inspect the aircraft — check for damage incurred during flight
- Review battery usage — note remaining charge and any performance issues
- Document any anomalies — unusual behavior, interference, close calls
- Secure the aircraft — proper storage of drone and batteries
For the Exam: The key regulatory requirement is that the Remote PIC must verify the operating environment and aircraft condition before EVERY flight — not just the first flight of the day.
Before every flight, the Remote PIC is required to:
Which of the following must be verified during a preflight inspection of the sUAS?