In this lesson, Ray Delahoussey highlights a powerful drone safety tip that supports safer operations and increased access to complex airspace. Strong preparation, careful inspection, and smart authorization planning help remote pilots operate with confidence and professional discipline.
Preflight Inspection Fundamentals
A thorough preflight inspection forms the foundation of safe drone operations. Ray examines propellers for nicks or cracks and checks the drone body for any structural concerns. Batteries must be fully charged, with backups inspected for deformation or damage. Firmware and required databases should also remain current. Props should stay off the drone during firmware updates to prevent motor activation.
Reconnaissance and Site Planning
Ray recommends visiting the intended flight location before the operation. This reconnaissance step helps identify obstacles, terrain features, and ideal flight paths. Notes from the visit support team briefings and strengthen overall preparedness. Professional planning often creates more opportunities for consistent work and safer mission execution.
The Value of a Spotter
A spotter supports situational awareness and enhances operational safety. This additional observer monitors line-of-sight conditions, potential obstacles, and developing hazards. Ray compares this to flight following in crewed aviation, where additional oversight helps maintain safe operations in dynamic environments.
How LAANC Expands Airspace Access
LAANC provides remote pilots access to controlled airspace at or below 400 feet. It also increases awareness of approved operating areas. Air traffic controllers gain visibility into planned operations, improving coordination. Remote pilots can request near-real-time authorization for operations below 400 feet through approved service providers. More information about LAANC appears at the FAA UAS Integration Page.
Registration and Eligibility
LAANC is available to recreational flyers and Part 107 operators, with manual approvals for some advanced requests. Part 107 operations require drone registration and a remote pilot certificate. More than 700 airports currently support LAANC, and the network continues to expand.
Bringing It All Together
This drone safety tip emphasizes detailed inspection, proactive planning, and compliant authorization requests. These actions support safer flights and broader access to controlled airspace. Ray’s approach reflects professional discipline and strengthens every stage of a drone mission.
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