FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsEasy
During a preflight inspection, a remote pilot in command identifies a small crack on one of the sUAS propeller blades. What action is required before the flight can proceed?
- AThe remote pilot must document the crack in the maintenance log and proceed with caution.
- BThe remote pilot must replace the damaged propeller with an undamaged one.
- CThe remote pilot must apply a small amount of epoxy to the crack to reinforce it.
- DThe remote pilot must conduct a short test flight to determine if the crack affects performance.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The remote pilot must replace the damaged propeller with an undamaged one.
Any damage to a propeller, including a small crack, can lead to imbalance, vibrations, reduced aerodynamic efficiency, and potentially catastrophic failure during flight. Safety dictates that damaged propellers must be replaced before operation to ensure airworthiness.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Documenting is good practice, but it's not sufficient to make the aircraft airworthy with a damaged propeller.
- C. Attempting field repairs on propellers is generally discouraged due to the difficulty in ensuring proper balance and structural integrity, and it's not a FAA-approved repair method for sUAS propellers.
- D. Conducting a test flight with a known damaged component is unsafe and could lead to further damage or an accident.
sUAS Preflight Inspection: Propeller Damage
During preflight, any damage to sUAS propellers (e.g., cracks, chips, bends) renders the aircraft unairworthy until the damaged component is replaced with an undamaged, balanced part.
- Propellers are critical for flight stability and safety.
- Even minor damage can cause imbalance and failure.
- Replacement, not repair, is the required action.
Memory trick: A 'crack' means 'change' the 'prop' immediately.