Pre-flight inspection — the 10-minute walkaround — FAA107

Objectives

Identify the key rules and §§ that apply to pre-flight inspection — the 10-minute walkaround.
Apply the UA.V.F.K1 knowledge element in a typical exam scenario.
Recognize common distractors and partial-credit answers.

Before each flight, the RPIC must perform a pre-flight inspection (14 CFR 107.15 + 107.49). A systematic 10-minute walkaround covers:

**1. Documents** — Remote Pilot Certificate, government photo ID, aircraft registration, any required waivers/authorizations.

**2. Airframe** — cracks, stress marks, antennas secure, landing gear intact, no loose screws.

**3. Propellers** — no nicks, cracks, or delamination. Correct rotational direction (CW vs CCW per motor). Properly torqued.

**4. Motors** — spin freely when turned by hand, no grinding or excessive play. Bearing condition.

**5. Batteries** — no swelling, puncture, or deformity. Voltage at nominal (typically 4.35V/cell for fresh LiPo). Connectors clean, locked in place.

**6. Firmware** — aircraft and remote controller on current stable version (per manufacturer). Known-issue check.

**7. Compass + GPS** — initial calibration if aircraft moved >100 miles since last flight. GPS lock with ≥7 satellites before takeoff.

**8. Control-surface response** — yaw, pitch, roll, throttle verification on a hover test (3-5 ft) before the planned mission.

**9. Payload** — securely attached, within MTOW, does not obstruct camera/sensors or the FOV of obstacle-avoidance sensors.

**10. Site** — airspace check (LAANC if applicable), TFR check, observer positions, bystander clearance, emergency landing options identified.

3 quick questions — no score kept, just formative feedback.

Q1 · UA.V.C.K2
Under 14 CFR 107.9, within how many calendar days must a remote pilot report an operation that resulted in property damage requiring more than $500 to repair?

Answer choices A 24 hours. B 72 hours. C 10 calendar days. D 30 calendar days.
Q2 · UA.V.B.K1
On a VFR Sectional Chart, a dashed blue line depicts the lateral boundary of what airspace?

Answer choices A Class B airspace. B Class C airspace. C Class D airspace. D Class E surface area.
Q3 · UA.V.D.K1
In the IMSAFE checklist, what does the 'A' stand for?

Answer choices A Airspace — have you checked the charts? B Aircraft — is it airworthy? C Alcohol — 8 hours bottle to throttle, BAC below 0.04%. D Altitude — is 400 ft AGL adequate?