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Drone Safety

ACTIVE SOP

Pre-Flight Checklist

  • [ ] Part 107 certificate current (within 24 months)
  • [ ] Drone registered with FAA (registration number marked on drone)
  • [ ] Battery charged ≥80% (all batteries)
  • [ ] Props inspected — no cracks, chips, or warping
  • [ ] Airspace authorization obtained (LAANC or waiver if in controlled airspace)
  • [ ] Weather checked: no rain, no wind >25 mph, visibility >3 miles
  • [ ] Site survey: no overhead power lines in flight path, clear launch/landing zone
  • [ ] Notify site owner/manager of drone operations
  • [ ] Identify bystanders and ensure safe distance

No-Fly Conditions

Do not launch if:

  • Wind gusts exceed drone's rated wind resistance (typically 25–30 mph)
  • Active precipitation
  • Visibility less than 3 statute miles
  • Below Class G floor in uncoordinated controlled airspace
  • FAA TFR (Temporary Flight Restriction) active in area (check notams.faa.gov)
  • Any nearby manned helicopter or aircraft operations

Site Safety

  • Do not fly over people not associated with the operation
  • Maintain visual line of sight at all times
  • Set geofence or altitude limit in drone app if available
  • Identify emergency landing zones before flight
  • Battery swaps: motor-off, drone stable surface

Incident Response

If the drone crashes or has an emergency:

  1. Land or retrieve immediately
  2. Assess for fire (rare but possible with LiPo battery damage)
  3. Secure the crash site
  4. Document: photos, flight log data
  5. Report to FAA if required (no serious injury threshold = $500+ damage or serious injury)