Before any flight, it's important to perform a number of pre-flight checks. Refer to the "Pre-Flight Checklist" on page 3 and the table below before each flight.
Mission Preparation
- Define the mission area: Set takeoff & landing, configure waypoints, and verify terrain levels.
- Define emergency landing & rally points: Establish points for emergency landings due to power loss or failsafe.
- Check weather conditions: Max wind speed >=30 MPH.
- Check Airspace: Apply for an LAANC if required.
- Visual Observer (VO): Have VO(s) stationed to maintain visual line-of-sight (VLOS).
- Safety Awareness: Be aware of potential flight hazards and safety concerns; notify all personnel in the mission area before flight.
- Crew Resource Management (CRM): Establish a CRM plan.
- Equipment Check: Verify all equipment is fully charged.
- Power Solution: Prepare a power/charging solution for GCS's and laptops during lengthy missions.
- Reserves: Prepare adequate fuel and battery reserves for lengthy missions.
- Checklist: Complete a Pre-Flight Checklist.
Arming/Takeoff
- Area Selection: Select a flat area for takeoff and landing that is free of obstructions (tall grass, trees, etc.).
- Flight Mode: Verify the aircraft is in "Loiter" flight mode before arming.
- Arm the vehicle: Use the following GCS options:
- C-GCS: Throttle down & Yaw Right
- C-ATLAS: Left Stick Down
- C-Navigator: Left Stick Down & Arm Button
- HereLink: Left Stick Down
- Status Confirmation: Confirm "ARMED" status in the Heads-Up Display (HUD).
- Takeoff: Ease throttle control up until takeoff & monitor climb out.
Disarming/Landing
- Positioning: Center the vehicle over the landing area.
- Descent: Reduce throttle and descend slowly until the vehicle has touched down.
- Disarm: Disarm the vehicle by holding throttle control down for 10 seconds, until propellers come to a full stop.
Final Confirmation: Confirm "DISARMED" status in the HUD.
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