Flight Planning

Flight Planning for RPAS Flight planning for large, complex, and military, style RPAS can be very similar to traditional manned aircraft requiring navigation, flight plans, route mapping... However for most smaller RPAS with a short range, and short flight time, flight planning can be quite different, but still extremely important. Flight Planning for an operation making use of Visual Range RPAS should include the following: Expectations and roles Aircraft and Equipment Authorizations and approvals Location Safety and Security Weather Emergency procedures Documentation This flight planning can be broken down as follows: Definition of the nature of the operation Maintenance and preparation of equipment General location information and site survey Airspace identification and authorization to operate Authorizations from property owner Planning for weather Defining roles and responsibilities Establishing safety and security measures Planning detailed flight operations Planning emergency procedures Notification to Transport Canada Expectations Understanding expectations can define the nature of the operation and aid in the identification of risks. You should discuss the client or customer's expectations well in advance as many times they aren't aware of the capabilities and limitations of the RPAS; you should plan to minimize these risks associated with those expectations to get a clear picture of the operation. Some examples of Expectations that should be managed: If a client is expecting you to fly for longer than your battery life If a client is expecting you to fly in a manner that is too close to the public or to uncontrolled buildings If a client is expecting something that violates the terms of your SFOC or conditions of your Pilot Permit