Practical Activity 3: Perform Controlled Flight and Navigation Procedures
Objectives
After completing this practical activity, learners will be able to:
- Perform controlled RPAS flight operations
- Apply navigation procedures during flight
- Maintain stable aircraft control throughout operations
- Follow planned flight routes and operational limits
- Demonstrate safe navigation and maneuvering procedures
Scenario
You are conducting an RPAS operational flight within an approved operational area as part of a planned aerial mission. During the operation, you are required to navigate the aircraft along a planned route while maintaining stable flight control, operational awareness, and compliance with aviation regulations and operational procedures.
You must demonstrate safe navigation, accurate maneuvering, and proper operational decision-making throughout the flight activity.
Instructions
Step 1: Review the Flight Plan
Review and confirm:
- Flight route
- Waypoints
- Operational altitude
- Airspace restrictions
- Emergency landing areas
- Operational limits
Ensure all flight planning information is understood before flight operations begin.
Step 2: Conduct Controlled Flight Operations
Perform controlled flight procedures including:
- Straight and level flight
- Controlled turns
- Speed control
- Altitude adjustments
- Position stabilization
Maintain safe aircraft control throughout the activity.
Step 3: Navigate Using Operational References
Use navigation systems and visual references to:
- Follow the planned route
- Maintain directional control
- Verify aircraft position
- Maintain situational awareness
Ensure compliance with flight boundaries and operational limits.
Step 4: Perform Waypoint Navigation
Demonstrate the ability to:
- Navigate to designated waypoints
- Maintain route accuracy
- Adjust flight path where necessary
- Monitor GPS and telemetry systems
Record navigation performance during operations.
Step 5: Monitor Aircraft and Environmental Conditions
Continuously monitor:
- Battery levels
- GPS connectivity
- Wind conditions
- Signal strength
- Aircraft stability
- Obstacle proximity
Respond safely to changing operational conditions.
Step 6: Apply Safe Operational Procedures
During flight operations:
- Maintain visual line of sight (VLOS)
- Avoid restricted areas
- Maintain safe distances from obstacles and people
- Apply communication procedures where required
Operate within aviation and workplace operational standards.
Step 7: Complete Flight Documentation
Complete:
- Flight navigation checklist
- Operational flight log
- Waypoint navigation report
- Operational compliance documentation
Expected Output
Learners must produce:
- A completed flight navigation checklist
- An operational flight log
- A waypoint navigation report
- An operational compliance checklist
Skills Practiced
- Controlled flight operations
- RPAS navigation
- Waypoint management
- Situational awareness
- Aircraft stability control
- Operational monitoring
- Aviation compliance
- Flight documentation