Flying Safely as a Remote Pilot: Key Practices for Success

As a remote pilot serving the real estate industry, every operation brings unique challenges. No two flights are the same, which is why I rely on my experience, checklists, and safety protocols to navigate each mission successfully. It’s essential to remember that even a small drone is an aircraft, and as such, it operates within the national airspace, where safety must always be the priority.

Here are some key steps I follow on all of my missions to ensure both safety and success:

1. Pre-Flight Airspace Check

Before bidding on any assignment, I always check the airspace for restrictions. This step helps me identify whether I’ll need specific permissions or authorizations prior to flying. By assessing potential limitations upfront, I can inform my clients of any obstacles that may affect the operation, such as restricted zones, weather conditions, or Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) that may arise.

If authorizations are required, I handle the necessary arrangements promptly. For instance, I’ve had to coordinate with local airports or Military Operating Areas and utilize systems like LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) to secure the needed permissions. In my experience, reaching out to the relevant authorities has always been well-received, and even when I’ve been unable to fly, keeping the client informed has often led to more work down the line.

2. Airspace Double-Check

I don’t just check the airspace once. I recheck it the day before the operation and again on the day of the flight. While this may sound excessive, modern apps make it easy to verify airspace conditions quickly. Relying solely on your drone’s internal systems is risky—some systems have built-in GEO fencing, and others don’t. Cross-referencing different systems ensures that everything is in order.

3. Wearing a Safety Vest

I always wear a brightly colored safety vest, which is particularly important when I’m flying in remote areas during hunting season—I don’t want to be mistaken for an animal. In urban environments, wearing a vest helps identify me as the pilot, which has made my work safer. Over time, I’ve noticed that when I’m not easily identified, people tend to approach and interrupt me more frequently, leading to unnecessary distractions while I’m flying. Flying a drone requires my full concentration, and I prefer to avoid answering questions until I’ve landed. If someone does come up to talk, I always pause the operation, which wastes valuable time and can introduce risks to the mission.

4. Use of a Landing and Takeoff Pad

I always carry a landing and takeoff pad with me, especially when flying in environments without a solid surface, like dirt roads, beaches, or grassy areas. Using the pad prevents debris from getting blown into the camera lens by the drone’s propellers, keeping the equipment clean and functional.

5. Battery Management

A fully charged setup is essential for any successful mission. I ensure that all batteries—drone, controller, and display devices—are fully charged and that I have spares on hand. Additionally, I carry portable chargers to recharge my gear between flights, particularly during long operations where battery life can be a limiting factor. Nothing halts a mission faster than running out of power in the field.

6. Managing SD Cards and Data Backup

Since I’m being paid for the data I collect, I never take risks with it. I bring multiple SD cards and avoid using the same card for back-to-back operations. If data is lost or corrupted after several flights on the same card, it’s hard to explain to a client why a re-flight is needed. To avoid this, I also bring a laptop to check and back up the data before leaving the site. Once data is successfully downloaded, I’ll reuse the SD card for the next flight. My main goal is to ensure that all data is secure and accounted for.

7. Preparedness and Comfort

Being properly equipped extends beyond just the technology. Having the right clothing and accessories is equally important. I always ensure I have essentials like a hat for sun protection or bug spray for areas prone to insects. The more comfortable I am, the smoother the operation.

8. Continuous Improvement Through Training and Logs

Many challenges can be mitigated with the right training and thorough planning. I log each operation, noting what went well and what didn’t. This allows me to refine my approach for future missions and continuously improve as a remote pilot.

9. A Good Start to Safer Operations

While these practices have served me well and can greatly contribute to the safety and success of your drone operations, they are by no means an exhaustive list. Drone safety requires continuous learning, preparation, and adaptation to new situations. However, if you’re looking for a solid foundation to build safer and more effective missions, these steps are a great place to start.

By following these practices, I can ensure both safety and efficiency in all my operations. Whether you’re an experienced pilot or just starting out, I encourage you to prioritize preparation and learning from each mission. Safe flying, and may your operations be successful!