FAA Part 107 Drone Practice Test

If the manufacturer does not provide information about scheduled maintenance, what should the sUAS operator do?

1. Contact the FAA for guidelines on operation

2. Establish a scheduled maintenance protocol

3. Ignore maintenance until notified

4. Only perform maintenance as needed

The correct answer is: Establish a scheduled maintenance protocol

The most appropriate action for an sUAS (small Unmanned Aircraft System) operator to take when the manufacturer does not provide specific information about scheduled maintenance is to establish a scheduled maintenance protocol. This proactive approach ensures that the drone remains in optimal operating condition and minimizes the risk of mechanical failures or accidents during flight. Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring safety, reliability, and performance in sUAS operations. By creating an individualized maintenance schedule based on flight hours, the environment in which the drone is operated, and best practices from industry standards, an operator can effectively manage wear and tear on components. This can include checks on battery health, propeller condition, and software updates, among other critical systems. Establishing a scheduled maintenance protocol also aligns with principles of good practice in aviation safety management, where regular inspections and upkeep are essential for operational reliability and safety. Doing so will help maintain the integrity of the sUAS and ensure compliance with regulations, ultimately resulting in safer and more effective operations.