Before each flight, what must the Remote PIC ensure regarding the sUAS?

The emphasis on ensuring that objects carried on the sUAS are secure is fundamentally tied to safety during flight operations. A Remote Pilot in Command (PIC) is responsible for the safety of the sUAS and any cargo it may be transporting. If objects are not secured properly, they can become loose during flight, potentially falling off and causing injury to people or damage to property on the ground. Furthermore, unsecured cargo can affect the stability and aerodynamics of the sUAS, potentially leading to a loss of control.

Considering the other choices, while maintaining an updated log, securing permits, and assessing weather conditions are all important aspects of flight preparation, they are not as directly related to the immediate operational safety of the UAV during flight. The condition of the maintenance log is more about ensuring the vehicle's mechanical integrity over time rather than a pre-flight immediate concern. Obtaining necessary permits is crucial but typically pertains to compliance with regulatory requirements rather than direct flight readiness. Evaluating weather conditions is essential for planning flights, but the focus here is on the sUAS itself and its operation during the flight. Hence, the most critical item immediately before flight is ensuring that any cargo is secured, which is vital for safe operational procedures.