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Drone Pre-Flight Checklist

A pre-flight checklist for drone pilots: battery, propellers, software, weather, airspace, controller, camera, GPS, surroundings and return-to-home.

What this tool does

A pre-flight checklist for drone pilots: battery, propellers, software, weather, airspace, controller, camera, GPS, surroundings and return-to-home.

How to use

  1. Work down the list and tick each item as you finish it.
  2. Ticks are saved on this device, in your browser, so they are still there when you come back.

What this checklist covers

The list has 8 groups and 29 items.

  • Battery (3 items): Battery is charged; Battery is seated and locked; No swelling or damage on the battery
  • Propellers (3 items): Inspect for cracks or chips; Securely attached and locked; Correct orientation for each motor
  • Software (3 items): Drone firmware is up to date; Controller firmware is up to date; App is up to date
  • Weather and airspace (5 items): Wind is within your drone's limits; No rain or other precipitation; Visibility is acceptable; Check flight restrictions and notices for your area; Stay away from airports and heliports
  • Controller (3 items): Controller battery is charged; Antennas are positioned correctly; Test all controls and sticks
  • Camera and gimbal (3 items): Lens is clean; Gimbal moves freely; Memory card is inserted and has free space
  • GPS and surroundings (5 items): Wait for a strong GPS signal; Calibrate the compass if the drone asks; Take off and land in a clear area; Identify obstacles nearby; Note emergency landing spots
  • Legal and return-to-home (4 items): Carry any pilot licence or certificate required where you fly; Check the drone is registered and marked where that is required; Set a return-to-home altitude that clears obstacles; Confirm the home point is recorded

Tip: Go through it before every flight. Ticks are saved on this device, so untick items for the next flight.

Limitations

  • This is a general list. It does not know your drone model, its limits or the manufacturer's procedures.
  • It does not state any legal requirement. Check the rules where you fly.
  • Ticks are saved only in this browser on this device.

FAQs

Q: Does this tool check my drone?
A: No. It is a checklist for you to work through by hand. It does not connect to a drone or to airspace data.
Q: Are my ticks saved?
A: Yes. Ticks are saved in your browser on this device and are not sent anywhere. Untick the items before your next flight.
Q: Which rules apply where I fly?
A: The list does not say. Drone rules differ by country and place, so check your aviation authority and your drone's manual.

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