Preflight Planning & Inspection

Operations: The Biggest Exam Section

Operations accounts for 35-45% of the Part 107 exam. That makes it the single largest section, covering everything from preflight preparation to emergency procedures to decision-making.

Before Every Flight

The FAA expects a systematic approach to preflight planning. This isn’t just good practice. It’s tested directly on the exam.

Step 1: Mission Planning

Define the operation:

• What are you doing? (inspection, mapping, photography)
• Where are you doing it? (exact location, altitude needed)
• When are you doing it? (time of day, weather window)

Step 2: Airspace Check

1. Sectional chart review: what airspace class? Do you need authorization?
2. LAANC authorization: if in controlled airspace, get approval through an app (Aloft, AirMap, etc.)
3. NOTAMs: check for Notices to Air Missions at faa.gov or 1800wxbrief.com
4. TFRs: check for temporary restrictions

LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) provides near-real-time authorization for drone flights in controlled airspace. It’s the fastest way to get approval, often instant.

Step 3: Weather Check

• Current METAR at nearest airport
• TAF for forecast during your operating window
• AIRMETs/SIGMETs for hazardous conditions
• Visual assessment: does what you see match the reports?

Step 4: Site Survey

Before arriving at the site (or upon arrival):

• Obstacles: towers, power lines, buildings, trees
• People and property: who and what is on the ground?
• Terrain: elevation changes, slopes
• Electromagnetic interference: power lines, radio towers, metal structures
• Takeoff/landing area: flat, clear, safe

Step 5: Crew Briefing

If operating with crew:

• Roles: who is PIC, PMC, VO?
• Communication: how will you communicate? (radio, hand signals, voice)
• Emergency procedures: what if you lose link? See another aircraft?
• Operating boundaries: where can the drone fly, where is it restricted?

Preflight Inspection

Physically check the drone before every flight:

1. Airframe: cracks, loose parts, damaged arms
2. Propellers: chips, cracks, secure attachment
3. Motors: spin freely, no unusual sounds
4. Battery: fully charged, no swelling or damage, securely seated
5. Camera/sensor: clean lens, secure mounting
6. GPS signal: adequate satellite lock before takeoff
7. Controller: charged, connected, firmware current
8. Remote ID: broadcasting (check app)

The PIC is responsible for ensuring the drone is in condition for safe operation. That means YOU must verify everything before flight, even if someone else prepared the drone.

Documents to Have Available

• Remote Pilot Certificate
• Drone registration (printed or digital)
• LAANC authorization (if applicable)

• Any waivers
• Operating manual for the drone

Quick Check

Q: What does LAANC provide? A: Near-real-time authorization for drone flights in controlled airspace.

Q: What should you check during a preflight inspection? A: Airframe, propellers, motors, battery, camera, GPS signal, controller, and Remote ID.

Q: Who is responsible for ensuring the drone is safe to fly? A: The Remote PIC. Always.

What’s Next?

Now let’s look at airport operations: runway markings, signage, traffic patterns, and how to operate safely near airports.

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This free course covers the essential knowledge, but if you want video walkthroughs, practice exams, and instructor support, Pilot Institute’s Part 107 course is the most comprehensive option available.