What must the Remote Pilot in Command (PIC) ensure before each flight?

The Remote Pilot in Command (PIC) is responsible for the safe operation of the small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) during flight. One critical aspect of this responsibility is ensuring that any objects being carried on the sUAS are secure. This assurance is vital to prevent any potential hazards that could arise from loose items. If objects are not secured, they could fall off during flight, potentially causing damage or injury to people, property, or the sUAS itself.

While the other options may seem relevant to flight safety and operation, confirming the security of objects being carried directly impacts operational safety and compliance with regulations. Therefore, the necessity of ensuring bundled payloads or equipment are properly attached and secure is a fundamental pre-flight task that must be performed by the PIC to promote safety and adherence to FAA guidelines.