What must a remote pilot do to maintain situational awareness?

Maintaining situational awareness is crucial for remote pilots operating Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This involves being aware of both the flight vehicle's status and the surrounding environment. By monitoring both the UAS and the surrounding airspace, remote pilots can make informed decisions, detect potential hazards, and ensure the safety and efficiency of the flight operation. This practice helps in recognizing changes in weather conditions, other air traffic, and any obstacles in the flight path, allowing for timely maneuvers or adjustments.

In contrast, relying solely on automated systems can create a false sense of security. While automation can aid in certain tasks, it does not replace the need for active monitoring and situational awareness. Using a flight log exclusively is beneficial for record-keeping but does not provide real-time awareness of the operational environment. Communicating only with ground control may limit a pilot’s ability to perceive changes in the immediate vicinity and does not encompass all necessary aspects of situational awareness. Thus, a comprehensive approach that integrates monitoring the UAS and the surrounding airspace is essential for effective situational awareness.