Safety First Always

Drones have transformed industries from filmmaking to construction, but with this innovation comes responsibility. A single mistake can result in damaged equipment, legal issues, or even injuries. Whether you are flying for professional projects or personal enjoyment, following strict pre-flight and on-set safety protocols is essential.

 

Rodrigo Branco Matsumoto, Chief Remote Pilot at Sky Perth, stresses, “Flying a drone is not just about capturing stunning visuals; it’s about ensuring every flight is conducted with safety in mind. A well-prepared pilot is a safe pilot.”

 

This guide outlines key pre-flight checks, best practices for on-set safety, and advanced tips to help drone operators minimise risks and ensure smooth flights.

 

Pre-Flight Safety Checklist

A well-executed pre-flight checklist reduces the risk of technical failures and ensures the drone is ready for safe operation.

 

1. Check the Weather Conditions

Drones are susceptible to weather conditions. Never assume that a bright day means it’s safe to fly. Consider the following factors:

• Wind Speed – High winds can make drones challenging to control. Check the manufacturer’s wind tolerance limits before flying.
• Rain and Humidity – Water can damage drone electronics. Avoid flying in fog, drizzle, or rain.
• Temperature – Extreme heat can cause overheating, while cold weather can shorten battery life.

Use reliable aviation weather apps to assess the forecast before launching.

 

2. Inspect and Calibrate the Drone

Before each flight, perform a physical inspection and calibration. This includes:

• Checking for cracks or loose propellers.
• Ensuring the battery is charged and properly inserted.
• Updating firmware and software for both the drone and controller.
• Calibrating the compass and IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) in an interference-free area.

A simple missed calibration could lead to erratic flying, loss of control, or a complete system failure.

 

3. Verify Your Flight Area

Before takeoff, check:

• Obstacles – Look for trees, power lines, and buildings.
• Airspace Restrictions – Avoid flying in no-fly zones or near airports.
• Crowds and Bystanders – Maintain a safe distance from people and vehicles.

Always have a designated emergency landing spot in case of technical issues.

 

4. Test the Controller and GPS Connection

• Ensure the controller is charged and properly connected.
• Check for a strong GPS signal to avoid flyaways.
• Test the Return-to-Home (RTH) function to confirm the drone can return safely if the signal is lost.

 

On-Set Safety Best Practices

Once in the air, situational awareness and team coordination become the most critical aspects of drone safety.

1. Maintain Situational Awareness

Rodrigo Branco Matsumoto advises, “Drones demand constant attention. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to accidents.”

• Always keep the drone within the line of sight.
• Assign a spotter if flying in a complex environment.
• Be prepared to land immediately if unexpected obstacles appear.

 

2. Manage Battery Life Effectively

A drone running out of power mid-flight is dangerous. To prevent this:

• Never fly with a battery below 30%.
• Avoid sudden movements and rapid acceleration to conserve energy.
• Carry spare batteries and keep them stored in a cool, dry place.

 

3. Communicate with Your Team

If flying on a film set or construction site, ensure everyone is aware of the following:

• Flight plans and takeoff locations.
• Emergency procedures in case of malfunctions.
• Noise impacts sound recording if filming is on set.

Clear communication ensures a safer working environment for everyone.

 

4. Respect Privacy and Safety Regulations

• Never fly over crowds or private properties without permission.
• Be mindful of animals, especially birds, as they may react unpredictably to drones.
• Avoid low-altitude hovering, which can make people uncomfortable.

 

Emergency Response Plan

Even with strict precautions, emergencies can occur. A response plan will reduce risks and ensure a quick recovery.

 

1. Prepare for a Mid-Air Malfunction

If the drone begins to malfunction:

• Stay calm and avoid sudden controller inputs.
• Activate Return-to-Home (RTH) if possible.
• If RTH is unavailable, look for a clear landing area and guide the drone down slowly.

 

2. Handling a Lost Connection

If the signal is lost, the drone usually initiates an automatic return if properly configured. If not:

• Try re-establishing a connection by moving to higher ground.
• If reconnection fails, track the last known location using flight logs.

 

3. What to Do in a Crash

• Check for injuries – If the drone hits someone, provide medical assistance immediately.
• Secure the drone – Turn it off to prevent further damage.
• Report the incident if working on a professional project.

A quick response can prevent further complications and liabilities.

 

Insights from Extreme Ownership

One of the most important lessons from Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin is that taking responsibility is key to success.

 

This applies directly to drone safety:

• Own every part of the flight – from planning to execution.
• If an accident happens, take accountability, learn, and improve.
• Be proactive – always prepare for the worst-case scenario.

 

By adopting an ownership mindset, drone pilots can ensure that every flight is conducted professionally and responsibly.

 

Advanced Drone Safety Techniques

For professional drone operators, advanced safety protocols are crucial.

 

1. Using Geofencing for Flight Restrictions

Many drones support geofencing, which prevents the drone from entering restricted airspace. Activating geofencing helps avoid accidental violations.

 

2. Flying in High-Risk Environments

If flying in urban or high-risk areas, consider:

• Using a drone with obstacle avoidance sensors.
• Flying at lower altitudes to reduce wind impact.
• Conducting a test flight before the actual operation.

 

3. Understanding Drone Insurance and Liability

For commercial pilots, drone insurance is essential. It covers:

• Damage to equipment.
• Third-party liability in case of accidents.
• Data loss or disruptions for professional shoots.

Conclusion

Drones provide incredible opportunities, but they also come with risks. Pilots can ensure safe, incident-free operations by following pre-flight, on-set, and emergency protocols.

 

Rodrigo Branco Matsumoto reminds pilots, “A pilot who prioritises safety ensures not just a successful flight but also a respected reputation in the industry.”

 

Safe flights lead to smooth operations and better results. Stay prepared, stay alert, and always prioritise safety.