What should be prioritized in a UAS operation plan?

The priority in a UAS operation plan should be ensuring the safety of people and property. In aviation, safety is the paramount concern, and this principle is especially critical when operating unmanned aircraft systems. The primary objective of any UAS operation is to prevent accidents and avoid endangering individuals, both on the ground and in the air, as well as protecting property and the environment.

When safety is prioritized, it involves comprehensive risk assessments, adherence to regulations, and implementing best practices. This ensures that operations are conducted within the legal framework set by aviation authorities, which often outlines requirements for pilot training, equipment standards, operational limits, and airspace restrictions. By emphasizing safety, remote pilots can effectively mitigate risks associated with UAS operations, which can range from collision with manned aircraft to impacts on bystanders or damage to property.

Although maximizing flight time, minimizing equipment costs, and improving aesthetic appeal in aerial shots can be important considerations in specific contexts, they should not overshadow the fundamental priority of safety. Any operation that compromises safety for the sake of another objective poses a significant risk and can lead to accidents, legal issues, and loss of public trust in UAS technology. Therefore, always placing safety at the forefront keeps operations responsible and sustainable.