Flight reviews are more than just a checkmark on your pilot certificate; they’re a valuable opportunity to refine your skills and learn best practices for operating your drone safely and efficiently. Since 2019, I’ve conducted over 150 flight reviews, and I’ve noticed three common areas where most pilots can improve. Whether you’re gearing up for a flight review or want to enhance your daily operations, these tips can make a significant difference.
For a deeper dive, check out the accompanying video, where I explain these tips in more detail and share additional insights.
1. Use Your Checklists
Why Checklists Matter
Checklists are more than a box-ticking exercise; they’re a Transport Canada requirement for all basic and advanced flights. They’re also critical tools for ensuring consistent, safe operations—especially during emergencies, when stress can easily cause you to miss a step.
How to Make Them Work for You
- Refine and Practice: Before your flight review, ensure your checklists are well-organized and tailored to your operations. Practice using them in real or simulated scenarios to get comfortable with the flow.
- Choose the Right Format: Digital checklists can be convenient, but if they’re on the same device you use to connect to your drone, they might slow you down. Paper checklists in a binder or clipboard are a great alternative. They’re my personal favorite because they’re reliable and easy to manage.
- Emergency Situations: Make sure your emergency checklists are easy to locate and use. Even if you think you’ve got the process memorized, referring to the checklist ensures nothing gets overlooked. This can be a game-changer in high-stress situations.
Pro Tip: Practice mock emergencies and use your emergency checklists as part of the drill. This will build your confidence and muscle memory for when it really counts.
2. Check the Airspace Above
Why Understanding Airspace Matters
Controlled airspace is often closer than you think, and it’s your responsibility to understand what’s above your flight area. If you lose control and your drone climbs into controlled airspace, you need to know who to contact. (Hint: it’s probably not the nearest tower!)
How to Stay Prepared
- Research Thoroughly: Before every flight, research the airspace around your location. Don’t just look at the airport’s location; note how close the controlled airspace is to your flight area. The difference between the airport centre and the edge of controlled airspace could be several nautical miles, which greatly impacts your reaction time in a lateral flyaway situation.
- Know Your Contacts: Identify the appropriate contact for the airspace above and laterally from you before your flight. This preparation could save valuable time in an emergency.
For more guidance on understanding airspace and how to research it effectively, watch this video.
3. Look at Your Drone When Initiating Movement
Why It’s Important
Even in visual line-of-sight flights, it’s natural to split your attention between your drone and your controller screen. However, keeping your eyes on your drone when initiating a movement ensures it’s behaving as expected and avoids potential obstructions.
How to Build This Habit
- Eyes First: Whenever you start a new movement (changing direction or altitude), watch your drone for a few seconds to confirm it’s doing what you expect.
- Switch Between Views: Alternate your focus between your drone and the screen as needed, but always prioritize visual observation during critical moments.
Analogy: Think of it like watching a hockey game. Do you watch the players or the scoreboard? You’d watch the players, right? Apply the same logic to your drone—watch the “player” and use the screen to confirm the “score.”
Build Better Habits for Better Flying
These three tips—using your checklists, checking the airspace above, and watching your drone during movement—are small habits that lead to big improvements. Not only will they help you ace your flight review, but they’ll also make you a safer, more confident pilot in everyday operations.
Ready to put these tips into action? Watch the video for a more detailed walkthrough, and let me know how it goes in the comments. Fly safe, and I’ll see you in the skies!
