Generic Drone Pre-Flight Checklist
Inspect propellers before installing (inspect for cracks, warping, chips, etc.), if applicable
Verify propellers are installed in their proper slots, if applicable
Verify propellers are securely connected to the motors
Ensure all (brushless) motors spin without friction
Ensure motors are securely mounted, and all electrical connections are secure
Inspect airframe and airframe legs for micro stress cracks
Inspect all external screws for tightness
Inspect camera lens for cracks and obstructions; clean if necessary
Inspect camera mount/gimbal (if applicable) for free movement
Inspect all obstacle-avoidance cameras and sensors; clean if necessary
Verify all air inlets are free from obstruction(s)
Inspect battery case for corrosion and cleanliness of connections
Inspect battery for warping and cracks; inspect connectors
Verify battery is securely mounted in compartment
Verify antennae are positioned properly, and free of damage
Verify battery is fully charged
Ensure battery warning threshold is set to 35% (if selectable)
Drone Controller Pre-Flight Checklist
Verify controller batteries are fully charged
Ensure controller display is clean
Inspect interconnection cables for kinks, deformation, or nicks in insulator
Inspect interconnection cable ends for damage or obstructions
Verify ‘joysticks’ operate freely
Confirm controller and drone video displays are clearly visible
Confirm operation of FPV goggles (if applicable)
Verify phone/tablet batteries (if used) are fully charged
Ensure shade hood is securely fastened to controller (if available)
Flight Area Pre-Flight Survey
Check applicable sectional charts and verify intended flight path is not subject to restrictions
Obtain all required clearances (if applicable)
Note all potential obstacles in intended flight path
Check forecasted weather in intended flight area and environs
Check for forecasted solar flares in your flight area
Verify the flight plan accounts for all obstacles
Ensure drone RTH altitude is set higher than all potential obstacles
Ensure flight pad is equipped with landing marker and safety equipment
Drone Crew Pre-Flight Checklist
Confirm pilot is well-rested and ready to fly
Confirm pilot’s ability to perform basic unassisted flight maneuvers on intended drone
Verify pilot is equipped with visual flight aids (such as eyeglasses and/r sunglasses)
Ensure pilot is qualified to fly intended drone and perform basic maneuvering and obstacle avoidance
Establish voice or radio communications with VO (Visual Observer)
Ensure VO (and other crew members, if applicable) are briefed on flight plan and mission parameters
Ensure VO is equipped with sunglasses and binoculars
Drone In-Flight Checklist
Launch the drone and allow it to hover (note the altitude)
Command the drone 2 feet forward, and then return to hover position (note the altitude)
Command the drone 2 feet to the rear, and then return to the hover position (note the altitude)
Command the drone 2 feet to the left, and then return to the hover position (note the altitude)
Command the drone 2 feet to the right, and then return to the hover position (note the altitude)
Verify the drone maintained the same hover altitude after each of the steps above
Verify drone response to yaw command
Command the gimbal to its lowest position and verify smooth motion
Command the gimbal to its highest position and verify smooth motion
Verify all flight indicator lamps and LEDs are operable
Verify drone RTH (Return to Home) function (if applicable) is operable
Drone Post-Flight Checklist
Perform visual inspection of entire drone
Complete flight log, noting any anomalies and/or problems
Annotate flight log with hours of flight time and flight map
Ensure all batteries discharge from full charge (but not less than 20%)*
*Modern battery tenders will automatically discharge LiPo batteries to an appropriate storage level
Drone Maintenance Schedule
Daily (or for each flight)
Pre-flight checks
Post-flight checks
Weekly
Clean camera lens with appropriate cloth (and cleaner, if necessary)
Clean and inspect position cameras and sensors
Inspect batteries to ensure casings are not warped or cracked
Perform compass calibration (if available)
Perform IMU calibration (if available)
Monthly
Calibrate drone position gimbals
Verify registration markings remain clear and un-obscured
Inspect propeller mounting springs
Ensure propeller quick-release screws are tight
Semi-Annually
Verify firmware updates are current (and contain no known ‘bugs’)
Calibrate collision and vision-positioning sensors (if applicable)
Annually
Lubricate camera gimbal mounts
A Brave New Drone World 