Pre-flight checklist

1. Paperwork and status

• Part 107 flight: remote pilot certificate in your physical possession (§ 107.7, § 107.12), knowledge recency current (§ 107.65).
• Recreational flight: TRUST completion proof with you (FAA recreational flyers).
• Drone registered and marked, unless exempt (§ 107.13; FAA registration).
• Remote ID broadcasting, or flying at an FAA-recognized identification area (§ 89.105; FAA Remote ID).

2. Operating environment (§ 107.49(a))

• Local weather checked; visibility at least 3 statute miles from the control station and cloud clearance met (§ 107.51).
• Local airspace and any flight restrictions checked; ATC authorization (e.g. LAANC) obtained if in Class B, C, D or a Class E surface area (§ 107.41; LAANC, B4UFLY).
• Location of people and property on the surface checked; operations over people only as allowed (§ 107.39).
• Other ground hazards checked.

3. Crew briefing (§ 107.49(b))

• Everyone directly participating briefed on operating conditions, emergency and contingency procedures, roles and responsibilities, and hazards.
• Visual observer (if used) can keep visual line of sight (§ 107.31).

4. Aircraft and control station (§ 107.15, § 107.49(c)–(e))

• Aircraft checked and in a condition for safe operation.
• All control links between the control station and the aircraft working properly.
• Enough power (battery) for the intended operating time.
• Any attached or carried object secure and not affecting flight characteristics or controllability.

5. In flight (§ 107.51, § 107.29)

• Groundspeed no more than 87 knots (100 mph).
• Altitude no higher than 400 ft AGL, unless within 400 ft of a structure and no higher than 400 ft above its top.
• Night or civil twilight: anti-collision lighting and night requirements met.
• Keep visual line of sight the whole flight.