FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsHard
A remote pilot has been awake for 20 hours and just finished an argument with a family member before heading out to conduct a scheduled aerial survey flight. Using the IMSAFE checklist to evaluate personal fitness for flight, which factor should most concern the pilot in this scenario?
- AIllness
- BMedication
- CStress and Fatigue
- DEating
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Stress and Fatigue
Being awake for 20 hours directly reflects fatigue, and the emotional argument reflects stress, both of which are elements of the IMSAFE checklist (Illness, Medication, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue, Eating) that a pilot must self-assess before flight; these factors degrade judgment, reaction time, and decision-making.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. No symptoms of illness are described in the scenario.
- B. No mention of medication use is given.
- D. Eating habits are not mentioned or implicated in the scenario.
IMSAFE Checklist
A personal self-assessment checklist pilots use before flight to evaluate physical and mental fitness: Illness, Medication, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue, Eating.
- Fatigue reduces reaction time and judgment
- Stress from personal issues can distract a pilot in flight
- Should be used before every flight, not just long missions
- Applies to remote pilots the same as manned aircraft pilots
Memory trick: I'M SAFE to fly only if none of these six apply