Remote Pilot Decision-Making Flashcards

A remote pilot notices their sUAS is drifting unexpectedly in calm conditions. What is the BEST first action?

Answer: Immediately land the aircraft and inspect it before resuming

Unexpected drift in calm conditions indicates a possible malfunction; the safest decision is to land immediately and inspect the sUAS.

Under the IMSAFE checklist used in aeronautical decision-making, what does the 'S' stand for?

Answer: Stress

In the IMSAFE checklist, 'S' stands for Stress, which can impair a pilot's judgment and reaction time.

A remote pilot is flying a commercial mapping mission when ATC issues a TFR over the area. What must the pilot do?

Answer: Immediately terminate the flight and exit the TFR

A TFR restricts all unauthorized flight; the remote pilot must immediately land or exit the restricted area.

Which cognitive trap most commonly leads remote pilots to fly in deteriorating weather?

Answer: Get-there-itis

Get-there-itis is the hazardous attitude of pressing on to complete a mission despite worsening conditions.

During a flight, a bystander enters the safety perimeter without authorization. What should the remote pilot do?

Answer: Immediately maneuver the sUAS away from the bystander and land if necessary

The remote pilot in command must ensure the safety of people in the area and must maneuver away or land if a bystander enters the hazard zone.

A remote pilot feels fatigued but the client insists on completing a contracted flight. What is the correct response?

Answer: Decline to fly; fatigue is a disqualifying condition under the IMSAFE model

Fatigue impairs judgment and reaction time; a remote pilot must refuse to fly when fatigued regardless of client pressure.

What is the purpose of conducting a 'What-if?' analysis before a drone flight?

Answer: To mentally rehearse responses to potential emergencies before they occur

A 'What-if?' analysis prepares the remote pilot to respond quickly and correctly if an emergency or unexpected situation arises.