How must a Remote Pilot respond to an in-flight emergency?

In-flight emergencies require a Remote Pilot to prioritize safety above all else. Using good judgment to safely terminate the flight and land the drone is crucial because the primary goal in emergency scenarios is to prevent potential harm to people, property, and the drone itself.

When confronted with an emergency, rapid decision-making is essential, and the safest course of action is often to land the drone as soon as possible. By choosing to terminate the flight safely, the pilot can mitigate risks associated with continuing to operate the drone under adverse conditions. This might include a loss of control, battery failure, or any other unforeseen circumstances that could complicate the flight.

Proactively landing the drone allows the pilot to manage the situation effectively, while other options such as troubleshooting mid-flight or attempting to return to the home point may lead to further complications or loss of control of the drone. Reporting to the FAA, while important after ensuring safety, is not the immediate priority during an in-flight emergency.