What should be a drone pilot's first action when preparing to fly near an airport?

When preparing to fly near an airport, the drone pilot's first action should be to verify the minimum distance requirements. This is essential for maintaining safety and compliance with aviation regulations. Drones have specific airspace restrictions, notably near airports where manned aircraft operate. Pilots need to ensure that they are aware of and adhere to the necessary minimum distance specified in the regulations to avoid interference with traditional air traffic.

Understanding and verifying these requirements ensures that the pilot can operate the drone safely and legally, minimizing the risk of accidents and promoting safe coexistence with other airspace users.

Checking weather conditions, inspecting the drone for mechanical issues, and launching the drone immediately, while all important steps in the overall pre-flight checklist, do not take precedence over understanding the legal constraints concerning airspace, especially those governing operations close to airports.