When conducting sUAS operations, what should a remote pilot do if they spot a manned aircraft nearby?

When conducting sUAS operations and spotting a manned aircraft nearby, the appropriate action for the remote pilot is to yield to the manned aircraft and take steps to avoid it. This is crucial because manned aircraft have the right of way in the airspace. According to FAA regulations, remote pilots must always prioritize safety by avoiding collisions and ensuring that their operations do not interfere with manned aircraft activities.

Yielding to the manned aircraft involves maneuvering the drone in a way that maintains a safe distance and does not impede the flight of the manned aircraft. Since manned aircraft are usually operating in controlled airspace and may be following specific flight paths or altitudes, it is imperative that the remote pilot monitors the situation and adjusts their operation accordingly.

While notifying Air Traffic Control can be beneficial in certain situations, it is not a primary action that should be taken in the moment when encountering a nearby manned aircraft. The immediate focus should be on avoiding the manned aircraft to prevent any potential incidents or collisions. Changing altitude may also not always be practical or effective, as it could inadvertently result in a situation where the drone still comes into conflict with the flight path of the manned aircraft. Therefore, yielding and avoiding the manned aircraft is