What should a remote pilot do before conducting a flight?

Before conducting a flight, it is crucial for a remote pilot to check NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) and weather conditions. This practice is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. NOTAMs provide critical information about airspace restrictions, temporary hazards, and other important details that could affect the flight. Understanding the current and forecasted weather conditions is equally important since adverse weather can significantly impact the operation of the unmanned aircraft system (UAS), potentially leading to unsafe flying conditions. By verifying this information prior to flight, the pilot can make informed decisions that enhance safety and ensure compliance with FAA regulations.

While charging the UAS battery, selecting a flight path, and informing the public are all important elements of pre-flight preparation, ensuring situational awareness regarding airspace and weather is fundamental to operational safety.