What is the primary responsibility of a Visual Observer (VO) in relation to the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)?

The primary responsibility of a Visual Observer (VO) is to assist and support the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) during flight operations. This role is crucial for maintaining situational awareness, particularly when the RPIC's view of the unmanned aircraft might be obstructed or limited. The VO helps in ensuring safety by continuously monitoring the airspace and providing the RPIC with vital information regarding the position of the aircraft, other aircraft in the vicinity, and any potential hazards.

In this collaborative dynamic, the VO acts as an additional set of eyes and ears, which is essential for safe operation. This support is particularly important in situations where the RPIC's attention is focused on flying the aircraft or executing specific maneuvers, and they may not have full situational awareness. Thus, the VO's role is integral in enhancing the overall safety of the operation.

Operational independence, such as flying the unmanned aircraft on their own, is outside the scope of a VO's responsibilities, aligning instead with the duties of the RPIC. Monitoring only weather conditions is a limited view of the VO's role, which encompasses broader situational awareness. Likewise, controlling the payload during flight is also a task designated for the RPIC, not the VO. The VO