THE MULTIROTOR CHECKLIST
The only thing worse than getting to the flying field and discovering you’ve forgotten something critical is getting your multirotor in the air and realizing you’ve overlooked an important detail like securing your props. We’ve compiled this checklist to help you remember all the little things that will keep you safely flying and having fun.
BEFORE YOU HEAD OUT
Check that onboard and transmitter batteries are charged. Optional: pack charger
Grab the correct transmitter. And bring the bind plug for your receiver, just in case
Check the weather — especially wind speed and precipitation — at your local flying site
PRE-FLIGHT
Position your antennas and range-check your aircraft
Check that wires are secure on the receiver and control board
Check props for signs of stress
Tighten prop nuts
Secure battery strap
FPV
Check that camera batteries are fully charged and the SD card is empty
Test FPV screen and/or goggles
Check goggle battery charge
If flying near others, call out the video channel you are using
CRASH KIT
It’s important to have a safe area, free of people, to make mistakes and, in the event of a crash, to be able to make simple repairs out on the field. Everyone’s crash kit is going to be a little different, but here are some recommended items to bring with you every time you fly. It’s easiest to incorporate them into a tackle box you can grab so everything is ready to go when you walk out the door.
Extra propellers and prop nuts (plus the proper sized wrench or screwdriver)
Clear tape, electrical tape, and hot glue sticks and gun
Soldering iron, battery- or butane-powered if you don’t have access to power
Zip ties of multiple sizes
Rubber bands
Spare booms and landing gear
Fire extinguisher and first-aid kit
Make sure you fly only in places where such activities are permitted. Get permission from property owners and avoid no-fly zones. In the U.S., these include:
• 5 mile radius around major airports
• 1 mile radius around large stadiums
• National parks
• Military bases
Other local restrictions may apply. For an interactive map, see mapbox.com/drone/no-fly