Operator Responsibility:
It is the operator's responsibility to maintain the ongoing airworthiness of the drones used in our operations. Regular maintenance and pre-flight inspections are critical to ensuring safe and efficient drone operations. Any defects, discrepancies, or abnormalities identified during pre-start inspections must be responded to promptly. The Chief Remote Pilot Operator should be informed of any issues, and appropriate actions should be taken to rectify them before the drone's next flight.
Pre-Start Inspection and Defect Reporting:
Before each flight, the designated drone operator must perform a thorough pre-start inspection of the drone. This inspection includes, but is not limited to, the following checks:
Visual inspection of the drone's exterior for physical damage, loose parts, or signs of wear.
Examination of propellers, arms, landing gear, and payload to ensure they are securely attached and in optimal condition.
Checking battery condition and charge level to ensure sufficient power for the intended flight.
Verifying the stability and functionality of the gimbal and camera, if applicable.
Testing flight control systems to ensure proper responsiveness and maneuverability.
Assessing the status of all sensors, GPS, and communication systems.
Reviewing the drone's flight log for any previous issues or maintenance history.
If any defects, discrepancies, or anomalies are discovered during the pre-start inspection, the operator must:
Ground the drone immediately and tag it as "INOPERABLE."
Notify the Chief Remote Pilot Operator and the maintenance team of the identified issues.
Provide a detailed description of the defects and their impact on the drone's airworthiness.
Wait for the maintenance team's assessment and clearance before resuming flight operations.
Flight Log and Maintenance Schedule:
The drone's flight log must be accurately maintained for each flight. The flight log should include details such as the date, flight duration, location, pilot in command, and any notable observations during the flight.
To ensure continued airworthiness, a general service must be conducted after every (XXX) hours of flight. The maintenance team is responsible for performing this service, which includes a comprehensive inspection, system checks, and necessary adjustments or part replacements as indicated by the manufacturer's guidelines.
All changes and new parts used during maintenance or servicing must be meticulously logged on the Drone Specific File provided by DCI Drones. This file serves as a comprehensive record of all maintenance actions, updates, and component replacements.
Summary:
The adherence to this Drone Maintenance and Defect Reporting Procedure is paramount to maintaining the safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance of our drone operations. By promptly addressing defects and conducting regular maintenance, we demonstrate our commitment to providing exceptional service while ensuring the utmost safety for our team, clients, and the public.
