What should a remote pilot do if weather conditions deteriorate after takeoff?

After a remote pilot takes off and the weather conditions begin to deteriorate, the best course of action is to land the unmanned aircraft system (UAS) as soon as it is safe to do so. This approach prioritizes safety, both for the aircraft and for people on the ground.

If conditions worsen, such as reduced visibility, increased wind speed, or the onset of precipitation, these factors can significantly affect the controllability of the drone and increase the risk of accidents or losing control of the aircraft. By landing promptly, the pilot mitigates the potential dangers associated with operating the UAS in adverse weather.

Continuing the flight and monitoring conditions may lead to further complications, as the pilot could find themselves in a situation where making a safe landing becomes challenging or impossible. Notifying the control tower is appropriate when flying in controlled airspace, but it does not address the immediate need to ensure the safety of the operation. Delaying the mission until conditions improve might not be feasible if the pilot needs to prioritize an emergency landing due to sudden and significant changes in weather.

Thus, landing the UAS safely when faced with deteriorating weather is a responsible and necessary action for any remote pilot.