105 Essential Steps for Drone Pilots: For Safe and Efficient Flight

Learning the operating procedures for safe drone flying

A Culture of Safety Must Be Practiced Until It Becomes Second Nature!

Successful drone operations require meticulous planning, adherence to safety measures, and a clear understanding of operational procedures. This article outlines essential steps for pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight processes to ensure safe and effective drone operations.

Pre-Flight Preparation

Key Preparations:

1. Carry Essential Documents:

   • Always have your drone registration and insurance policy documents on hand during operations.

2. Assess the Flight Area:

   • Check for obstacles, bystanders, and restricted airspace.

3. Inspect Drone Systems:

   • Ensure the unmanned aircraft and its components are functioning correctly.

   • Verify the battery, firmware, GPS signal, and communication link between the drone and the remote controller.

     
     
     
     

Best Practices for Pilots:

• Get adequate rest and avoid flying under the influence of alcohol or psychoactive substances.

• Familiarize yourself with local regulations and restrictions.

• Work with a spotter to monitor flight activities and practice coordinated communication for enhanced situational awareness.

Drone Operation Checklist: Pre-Flight, In-Flight, and Post-Flight Steps

Pre-Flight Preparation

1. Mission Check:

   • Plan the flight route and ensure the take-off area is free of obstacles.

   • Assign roles to team members, such as spotters, for enhanced safety.

2. System Inspection:

   • Fully charge the batteries for the drone and remote controller.

   • Test all hardware and software functionalities.

3. Environmental Assessment:

   • Avoid crowded areas, parks, or event venues.

   • Check Aeronautical Information Publications (AIP) for restricted or prohibited zones.

4. Choosing a Take-Off Location:

   • Avoid taking off or landing on sand, gravel, or dusty surfaces as debris can damage the motors and reduce their lifespan.

   • Use a drone launch pad for take-offs and landings. If unavailable, select a clean, flat surface that is visible and safe for operation.

During the Flight

1. Take-Off and Flight Execution:

   • Begin with the drone powered on at the take-off point to record GPS coordinates for an accurate Auto Return to Home (RTH).

   • Ascend slowly to 3–5 meters, checking for unusual noises or responses to environmental factors such as wind or interference.

   • Confirm optimal GPS signal and battery levels.

   • Before moving, rotate the drone clockwise to scan for obstacles, and identify key landmarks like roads, rivers, or the sun's position for orientation.

2. Situational Awareness:

   • Always keep the drone within visual line of sight.

   • Avoid flying over people, animals, or sensitive areas.

   • Monitor environmental factors like wind, reflections, or other hazards.

3. Emergency Readiness:

   • Stay aware of potential risks like engine malfunctions, compass interference, or bird collisions.

   • Prepare to land when the battery level drops below 50%, ideally landing at 40%.

   • Practice maintaining composure in emergencies, particularly if the signal is lost, and the RTH system is activated. Always monitor for possible errors in the automated system and be ready to intervene.

Pro Tip:In emergencies, prioritize the safety of people and property. Land the drone as quickly and safely as possible using knowledge from consistent practice and training.

Post-Flight Checklist

1. Drone Inspection:

   • Conduct a visual inspection for damage or abnormalities.

   • Check moving parts like propellers and cameras for wear and tear.

2. Battery Maintenance:

   • Allow batteries to cool for at least 30 minutes before recharging.

   • Store batteries at room temperature, away from heat.

   • Avoid keeping batteries at 100% charge if not in use, as overcharging can damage cells. Batteries will discharge automatically within 7–14 days to prevent long-term damage.

Environmental Challenges

1. Weather Conditions:

   • Monitor wind levels, temperature, and humidity.

   • Keep batteries warm in cold weather and avoid flying in heavy fog or strong winds.

2. Wildlife Awareness:

   • Avoid disturbing birds or flying low over water where birds are present.

Emergency Management

1. Compass Interference:

   • Steer clear of areas with high electronic interference, such as power lines or metallic objects.

2. Engine Malfunctions:

   • Understand how your drone responds to engine failures (e.g., automatic rotation for a softer landing).

3. Signal Loss:

   • Configure the RTH (Return to Home) feature with appropriate altitude and obstacle avoidance settings, especially when flying over water or moving vehicles.

Safe Landing Procedures

• Land manually or use the automatic RTH feature on a visible and clear launch pad.

• Ensure the landing area is free of people and obstacles within a 3–5 meter radius.

Conclusion

Drone pilots can ensure safe, legal, and efficient operations by adhering to these operational procedures. Prioritizing thorough preparation, maintaining vigilance during flights, and performing proper post-flight maintenance will extend the lifespan of the drone and enhance operational safety.

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Source: CAAT/UAV | Edited by: Instructor Dang © 2024