What is the main function of a Visual Observer (VO) in unmanned aircraft operations?

The role of a Visual Observer (VO) in unmanned aircraft operations primarily involves monitoring the airspace for safety. The VO serves as an additional set of eyes that helps ensure safe operation by keeping an eye out for any manned aircraft, obstacles, or other potential hazards in the vicinity. This is crucial for maintaining situational awareness, especially in environments where the remote pilot may have limited visibility or be preoccupied with operating the drone.

The VO assists the remote pilot by providing real-time information about the environment, allowing for better decisions regarding the flight path and overall safety. By focusing on the surroundings, the VO helps to mitigate risks and communicate any emerging threats to the remote pilot, facilitating safer operations.

While controlling the aircraft, providing communications support, and assisting in pre-flight checks are important functions within drone operations, they are not the primary responsibilities of the VO. The specific task of monitoring the airspace makes the VO an essential role for enhancing safety during unmanned aircraft missions.