A remote pilot arrives at a job site where a ground crew member has already assembled the aircraft and says it is ready to fly. The client asks the pilot to launch immediately. What does 14 CFR § 107.49 require?

Question

Accepted Answer

The remote pilot in command must personally verify the aircraft is in a safe operating condition before each flight, regardless of who assembled it or any time pressure. Under 14 CFR § 107.49, the remote pilot in command is responsible for ensuring the aircraft is in a safe operating condition prior to each flight. This responsibility cannot be delegated to a ground crew member or waived due to schedule pressure. The PIC must personally perform the preflight check before launch.

Answer

The pilot may rely on the crew member's confirmation if that person is experienced with the aircraft

Answer

A verbal confirmation from a crew member satisfies the preflight requirement under Part 107