A remote pilot is 8 minutes into a 25-minute construction documentation flight when their drone's Remote ID broadcast module fails mid-flight. What should the remote PIC do?

Why →Under 14 CFR Part 89, a small UAS must broadcast Remote ID throughout the entire operation, not just at launch. If a broadcast module stops broadcasting mid-flight, § 89.115(a)(4) requires the pilot to land as soon as practicable; § 89.110(a)(2) imposes the same duty when a built-in standard Remote ID system fails. Remote ID is required nationwide regardless of airspace class (with the limited exception of FAA-recognized identification areas, FRIAs).

The trap →Remote ID is a continuous requirement, not just a pre-flight check. Class G airspace does not exempt operations from Remote ID. Enforcement can target the failure to land after a malfunction, separate from the malfunction itself.

Field note →Verify Remote ID broadcast is active as part of your pre-flight checklist. Some manufacturers include Remote ID status in the health screen. Standard Remote ID has been required on newly produced drones since September 16, 2022.