Drone Pre-Flight Checklist

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD WORD VERSION

Drone Model: ____ Registration #: ____ Date: //__

BEFORE ARRIVING AT LOCATION

□ Check weather forecast (wind, precipitation, visibility)
□ Verify airspace restrictions via B4UFLY or similar app
□ Obtain necessary airspace authorizations if required
□ Charge all drone batteries to 100%
□ Charge controller battery to 100%
□ Charge mobile device/tablet to 100%
□ Format memory cards
□ Clean camera lens and sensors
□ Pack all necessary equipment and accessories
□ Review flight plan and objectives
□ Notify required parties of planned flight (if applicable)

LOCATION ASSESSMENT

□ Identify suitable takeoff and landing area
□ Note potential obstacles (trees, power lines, buildings)
□ Identify emergency landing locations
□ Check for sources of electromagnetic interference
□ Evaluate sun position and lighting conditions
□ Assess wind conditions at site
□ Scan for unexpected airspace hazards (airports, heliports)
□ Identify people in the area who should be informed
□ Check cellular signal strength (if relevant for operations)
□ Determine if site conditions match expected parameters

EQUIPMENT SETUP

□ Place landing pad on level surface
□ Remove gimbal cover and protective elements
□ Install propellers (if not already attached)
□ Insert fully charged battery
□ Verify battery is locked in place
□ Check propellers for damage or cracks
□ Ensure propellers are securely fastened
□ Verify gimbal movement is unobstructed
□ Insert memory card and verify it’s recognized
□ Unfold drone arms in proper sequence
□ Power on controller before drone
□ Connect mobile device to controller
□ Launch flight app

SYSTEM CHECKS

□ Verify sufficient storage space on memory card
□ Check GPS signal strength (wait for strong signal)
□ Calibrate compass if at new location or prompted
□ Verify home point is set accurately
□ Check battery level on drone (%) □ Check battery level on controller (%)
□ Check battery level on mobile device (%) □ Verify camera settings for mission (_ Mode)
□ Test camera function and gimbal movement
□ Verify obstacle avoidance systems are active
□ Ensure drone firmware is up to date
□ Ensure app is up to date

FINAL PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS

□ Set Return-to-Home altitude appropriate for surroundings (_ ft/m) □ Set maximum flight altitude ( ft/m)
□ Set maximum distance (__ ft/m)
□ Verify transmission signal strength
□ Clear takeoff area of debris and foreign objects
□ Brief any observers or crew on safety procedures
□ Check for approaching aircraft or other hazards
□ Review flight objectives and shot plan one final time
□ Announce takeoff to nearby people
□ Position yourself with sun at your back when possible

FIRST HOVER TEST

□ Perform controlled takeoff to eye level
□ Hover for 10-15 seconds to verify stability
□ Check for unusual sounds or vibrations
□ Verify control response in all directions
□ Confirm normal telemetry readings
□ Check video feed quality
□ Confirm GPS positioning is stable
□ Verify no warning messages are present

NOTES & OBSERVATIONS

Wind Speed/Direction: ___________

Battery Flight Time Estimates:
Battery 1: _ min | Battery 2: min | Battery 3: __ min

Potential Hazards Identified: ___________

Special Considerations: ___________

POST-FLIGHT CHECKLIST

□ Land safely in designated area
□ Power off drone after motors stop
□ Power off controller
□ Remove battery from drone
□ Replace gimbal cover
□ Inspect drone for any damage
□ Note any issues encountered during flight
□ Record flight time and battery usage
□ Pack equipment securely
□ Ensure no equipment is left behind

---

Emergency Procedures Reference

Signal Loss

1. Monitor drone behavior – it should initiate Return-to-Home
2. Remain at takeoff location if safe to do so
3. Look for drone returning to home point
4. If drone does not return, note last known position and altitude

Low Battery

1. Begin return to home point at 30% battery
2. Land immediately if battery reaches 20%
3. Be prepared for automatic landing if battery reaches critical level
4. Maintain visual contact throughout emergency return

Disorientation

1. Release controls – GPS models will hover in place
2. Use map view to confirm orientation if available
3. Activate Return-to-Home if unable to reestablish orientation
4. Use trainer mode or position hold while regaining visual orientation

Strong Wind

1. Reduce altitude to minimize wind exposure
2. Fly directly back to landing zone without delay
3. Be prepared for increased battery consumption
4. Use Sport/High-Power mode if necessary to overcome wind

Obstacle Collision

1. Release controls immediately to stabilize
2. Assess drone stability and damage
3. If controllable, land as soon as practical
4. If uncontrollable, prepare for potential crash (warn people in area)

---

Remember: Safety First – If in doubt, land the drone!