What must be done before starting a UAS flight?

Conducting a pre-flight check is essential before starting any UAS flight as it ensures that the unmanned aircraft system is in safe operating condition. This process typically includes several critical steps such as inspecting the aircraft for any signs of damage, checking the battery levels, ensuring that all components are functioning correctly, and verifying that any software updates have been completed. A thorough pre-flight check helps to identify potential issues that could lead to flight failures or accidents, thus ensuring both the operator's and the public's safety.

While obtaining public approval, registering the flight online, and securing a flight attendant may be relevant in specific contexts, they do not directly address the immediate safety and operational aspects required before an actual flight can take place. Public approval might be necessary for flights in certain environments or jurisdictions, but it does not replace the need for a pre-flight safety inspection. Similarly, online registration typically pertains to the overall compliance and legal requirements for flying a UAS, rather than assessing the readiness of the aircraft itself. Lastly, securing a flight attendant is not a norm in UAS operations, as they are primarily flown remotely and do not require crew members aboard for general operations.