The UAS Pilots Code

A Guide for Improving Drone Safety and Professionalism

Written to encourage drone pilots to consider themselves as aviators and become safe participants in the aviation community, the UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) Pilots Code (UASPC) offers guidance that drone pilots should follow to comply with regulations and avoid incidents and accidents.

Even though the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has established regulations under Part 107, these rules do not help a drone pilot manage the many challenges that come with operating a drone safely, especially during emergency situations. Since drone technology is advancing rapidly, the UASPC will continuously be updated to stay current with new developments.

Developed by a team of professionals at the University Aviation Association and the Aviators Code Initiative, the UASPC reflects years of safety practices and lessons learned in both manned and unmanned aviation. The UASPC has seven sections, each presenting principles and recommended practices. The following is a summary of the seven sections of the UASPC.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

- Drone pilots should make safety a top priority and always try to improve their knowledge, skill, and attitude.

- Before takeoff, create a mission plan that considers the pilot’s skills and drone capabilities, operations area, environmental conditions, and other factors affecting flight safety. Create an emergency response plan, and identify options for emergency landing locations. Check relevant NOTAMs (notices to airmen), including TFRs (temporary flight restrictions), prior to conducting flight operations.

- Always use a visual observer, even when not required, for added safety. Plan for the possibility that people may approach your drone operation and create a distraction or hazard. Limit unnecessary tasks or communication during launch, recovery, and other critical phases of flight.