**Emergency Procedures for UAS: FAQ**

Emergency Procedures for UAS: FAQ

Flying drones safely and legally in Europe is essential for hobbyists, professionals, and commercial operators. Understanding emergency procedures ensures compliance with EASA regulations and promotes safe operations. Below are frequently asked questions about handling emergencies with Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).

---

1. What should I do if my drone loses GPS signal during flight?

Direct Answer: Immediately switch to manual flight mode if your drone permits and carefully regain control. If manual mode is unavailable, follow the manufacturer's emergency protocol for signal loss.
Regulatory Context: Ensure you are operating in a category that allows manual intervention and that your drone meets operational requirements for GPS-dependent systems (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4).
Practical Example: If you're flying in a controlled environment, move the drone to a safe landing area manually. In open category operations, maintain visual line of sight and land safely.
Safety Reminder: Always test your drone's manual mode before flight and ensure GPS systems are functioning during pre-flight checks.

---

2. What actions should I take if my drone battery starts to fail mid-flight?

Direct Answer: Immediately reduce altitude and prepare for a controlled landing in the safest nearby area. Avoid flying over people or property.
Regulatory Context: Battery management is part of operational safety requirements under EASA regulations (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5).
Practical Example: If flying at 80m altitude and your battery level drops below safe limits, descend at a steady rate and land in an open area.
Safety Reminder: Always check your battery health and perform pre-flight inspections to avoid failures during flight.

---

3. What are the emergency procedures for flying near an airport if my drone malfunctions?

Direct Answer: Immediately notify the relevant Air Traffic Control (ATC) authority and follow their instructions. Avoid any further flight operations until the malfunction is resolved.
Regulatory Context: Flying near airports requires prior authorization under the specific category and compliance with airspace restrictions (Reg 2019/947 Art. 6).
Practical Example: If your drone loses signal within controlled airspace near an airport, use your emergency contact protocols to inform ATC of the situation.
Safety Reminder: Always ensure you have authorization and maintain constant situational awareness when operating near airports.

---

4. What should I do if my drone enters a no-fly zone due to a loss of control?

Direct Answer: Attempt to regain control immediately. If unsuccessful, engage the drone's fail-safe return-to-home (RTH) feature if available. Notify local aviation authorities if the drone remains in the no-fly zone.
Regulatory Context: Operating in no-fly zones is strictly prohibited without authorization (Reg 2019/947 Art. 9).
Practical Example: If your drone inadvertently enters restricted airspace, cease operations and contact authorities to report the incident.
Safety Reminder: Always check for no-fly zones in your area and ensure your drone's geo-fencing systems are active.

---

5. How should I respond to a flyaway incident with my drone?

Direct Answer: Activate the fail-safe return-to-home (RTH) feature if equipped. If the drone is unrecoverable, notify local aviation authorities immediately.
Regulatory Context: Drone operators must ensure their drones are equipped with systems to mitigate risks during flyaway incidents (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4).
Practical Example: If your drone loses connection while flying within visual line of sight (VLOS), engage the RTH function and monitor its status.
Safety Reminder: Always conduct range tests before flight and maintain VLOS during operations.

---

6. What happens if my drone collides with property or people?

Direct Answer: Stop all operations immediately and provide assistance if needed. Report the incident to local authorities and comply with any insurance or liability requirements.
Regulatory Context: Operators are responsible for ensuring their drones pose minimal risk to people and property (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5).
Practical Example: If your drone crashes into a parked car, exchange information with the property owner and report the incident as required.
Safety Reminder: Avoid flying over populated areas unless specifically authorized and insured.

---

7. Can I use a parachute system in case of drone failure?

Direct Answer: Yes, but only if the parachute system complies with EASA standards and the drone is operated in a category that allows mitigation measures (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4).
Regulatory Context: Mitigation systems such as parachutes are acceptable for reducing risks during drone failures, provided they meet safety requirements.
Practical Example: During a commercial operation, a parachute system can minimize damage if your drone loses power over an open field.
Safety Reminder: Test parachute systems regularly and ensure they are compatible with your drone model.

---

8. What are the emergency procedures for UAS in the event of sudden weather changes?

Direct Answer: Immediately halt operations and return the drone to its takeoff point or land safely in the nearest open area.
Regulatory Context: Weather conditions must be considered as part of the pre-flight risk assessment (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5).
Practical Example: If unexpected high winds occur during a flight, descend and land your drone in a clear area to prevent damage or loss of control.
Safety Reminder: Always check weather forecasts and avoid flying in unpredictable weather conditions.

---

9. How do I handle emergencies during BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations?

Direct Answer: Activate emergency protocols, such as automated return-to-home systems, and notify authorities if the drone cannot be recovered.
Regulatory Context: BVLOS operations require specific authorizations and risk mitigation measures (Reg 2019/947 Art. 6).
Practical Example: If communication is lost during BVLOS operations, rely on pre-programmed emergency procedures to recover the drone.
Safety Reminder: Conduct thorough risk assessments and ensure communication systems are reliable before BVLOS flights.

---

10. What happens if I violate emergency procedures or fail to report an incident?

Direct Answer: Violations can result in fines, suspension of operational privileges, or legal penalties depending on the severity of the incident.
Regulatory Context: Operators are required to report incidents and comply with operational standards under EASA regulations (Reg 2019/947 Art. 19).
Practical Example: Failure to report a drone collision may result in liability claims or regulatory enforcement actions.
Safety Reminder: Always prioritize compliance and transparency when handling incidents or emergencies.

---

Disclaimer

Regulations may change—always verify with official sources. This content is educational and does not constitute legal advice. Consult official EASA documentation for complete requirements.

For more information, visit 120mAGL.com or consult your local aviation authority. Fly responsibly!