EASA Specific Category Pre-Flight Checklist (Irish Operations)

How to use this checklist

Print a fresh copy for each flight, tick the boxes by hand, and file it with the job record. If any item fails, the flight does not go ahead. This is not a best-practice suggestion. It is the procedural discipline that keeps an EASA Specific Category authorisation valid and a commercial operation insurable.

1. Authorisations and documentation

• EASA Specific Category operational authorisation valid and within scope for this operation
• Operations Manual version on board is the current approved version
• Remote pilot competency (STS, A2 or PDRA) valid for the class of operation
• Public liability insurance minimum €13 million, certificate dated within the last 12 months
• Aircraft registered to the operator with IAA and marked with operator ID
• Client scope of works and site authorisation letter on file

2. Airspace and geographic zones

• Site checked against the IAA drone map for restricted, controlled and prohibited zones
• No active NOTAMs affecting the site or approach corridor
• If inside controlled airspace: ATC coordination confirmed in writing
• If within 5 km of an aerodrome: prior approval from aerodrome operator
• Ground risk class and air risk class assessed against PDRA-S01 or equivalent

3. Site safety and access

• Site visit or desktop survey complete, access routes identified
• Take-off and landing areas clear of people and obstacles
• Emergency landing options identified within the operating area
• Nearby public, livestock, power lines and overhead obstructions noted
• Weather forecast within aircraft operating limits, wind under 10 m/s for the survey platform
• Visual line of sight achievable for the entire mission (or BVLOS authorisation in force)

4. Aircraft and equipment

• Airframe inspected: no damage to props, motors, arms, shell
• Battery health above 80%, enough charged packs for mission plus 20% reserve
• Gimbal and payload calibrated, camera firmware current
• SD card formatted, sufficient capacity for the mission
• Home point set, return-to-home altitude above the tallest obstacle on the route
• GNSS fix strong, RTK/PPK corrections receiving if survey-grade

5. Third parties and privacy

• GDPR assessment complete: no uncontrolled capture of personal data
• Signage posted at site access points if recording in a public area
• Neighbouring properties notified where appropriate
• Data retention and deletion policy understood by the remote pilot

6. Final pre-flight

• Crew briefing complete: roles, hand signals, emergency procedures
• Radio or phone contact established with site personnel
• First aid kit, fire extinguisher and high-vis PPE on site
• Logbook open, flight start time recorded
• Chief Remote Pilot: I am fit, rested and authorised to fly this mission