Section #

Avoiding Obstacle Hazards

In this lesson we will review the 5 most common of abnormal and/or emergency situations you may need to respond to during a flight mission. The manufacturer of your drone will include documentation on specific aspects on how to use your sUA in these situations.

Obstacles & In-Flight Hazards

Here’s how each of these elements can present obstacles to unmanned aircraft (UA) flight:

Towers:

    Tall structures such as radio, cell, or television towers pose a collision risk, especially during low-altitude flight operations. Their locations and heights are marked on sectional charts, and some towers exceed 400 feet AGL, making it crucial for UA pilots to be aware of them when planning missions.

    Guy Wires

      These are thin cables used to stabilize towers and other tall structures. While often difficult to spot visually, they extend outward from towers and can be just as dangerous as the towers themselves. Sectional charts may note their presence, but their actual positions require extra vigilance.

      Aerial Activity

        Areas with frequent aerial operations, such as helicopter zones, agricultural aircraft, or glider activity and parachute jumping present a hazard for UA pilots. These areas are indicated on sectional charts and require extra caution to avoid collisions or interference with manned aircraft.

        Smoke Plumes

          While not typically marked on sectional charts, smoke plumes from fires or industrial activities can obstruct a drone’s sensors, limit visibility, and cause air turbulence, all of which could lead to loss of control or damage to the UA. Always be aware of local reports or visible plumes during operations.

          Sectional Chart Legend of Indicated Obstacles

          When planning your flight missions, the sectional chart will provide essential information that helps ensure safe and efficient operations.

            You’ll find key details about altitudes, airspace boundaries, and navigation aids, among other important data. As you go through your chart, keep an eye out for the following critical pieces of information to help guide your mission planning.

            Subtitle:

              Content

              Practice Quiz

              Accident Reporting

              1 / 9

              How soon must a remote pilot report an accident to the FAA?

              2 / 9

              While operating your sUAS, you experience a lost link and your drone crashes into a park. One person suffers a broken leg. What should you do?

              3 / 9

              Your sUAS loses control and crashes into a building, causing $600 worth of damage. What is your responsibility?

              4 / 9

              While flying your sUAS, it crashes into a backyard and causes a minor injury to a person, requiring only a band-aid. What action should you take?

              5 / 9

              Your sUAS crashes and a person loses consciousness for a few minutes but does not require hospitalization. What should you do?

              6 / 9

              While flying, your sUAS malfunctions and crashes into a parked car, causing $300 worth of damage. What is the appropriate response?

              7 / 9

              Your sUAS crashes into a tree and falls, hitting a person who later needs stitches at the hospital. What is your responsibility?

              8 / 9

              During a flight, your sUAS experiences a flyaway and crashes into a roof, causing $800 in damages. How should you proceed?

              9 / 9

              What does the amount of property damage from a drone accident need to exceed for it to be reported to the FAA?

              Your score is

              The average score is 88%

              0%