Who is primarily responsible for the operation of a drone?

The primary responsibility for the operation of a drone rests with the Remote Pilot in Command (PIC). The PIC is the individual who holds the necessary certification and is accountable for the overall safety of the flight. This includes ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations, conducting pre-flight checks, maintaining situational awareness during the operation, and making critical decisions regarding the flight path and any necessary adjustments to ensure the safety of the drone and those in the vicinity.

The role of the PIC is vital because they are tasked with understanding the operational limits of the drone, as well as various factors such as the airspace in which they are flying, weather conditions, and any potential hazards. They must ensure that the drone is operated within the boundaries of the law, particularly FAA regulations related to the safe operation of unmanned aircraft systems.

While other roles like the Second-in-Command, Ground Control Operator, or Aircraft Technician may support the operation in various capacities, they do not hold the same level of responsibility as the PIC, who ultimately oversees the entire flight operation. This delineation ensures that there is a single point of accountability for any decisions made during the drone's flight.