What should a remote pilot do after a UAS flyaway occurs?

After a UAS flyaway occurs, notifying Air Traffic Control (ATC) and monitoring the location is essential for multiple reasons.

First, it informs ATC of a potentially hazardous situation where a UAS may no longer be under the pilot's control, ensuring that air traffic in the vicinity can be appropriately managed to prevent collisions or other incidents. This communication is crucial in scenarios where the UAS might inadvertently enter controlled airspace or interfere with crewed aircraft.

Second, monitoring the location allows the pilot to track the UAS’s path and determine its last known position. This information is valuable for any investigation that may follow, as it can help assess the situation and potential risks posed by the flyaway. By maintaining awareness of the UAS's location, the remote pilot can also provide updates to ATC and prepare for any necessary actions or decisions regarding safety.

In the context of safety protocols, while regaining control or landing the UAS might seem like immediate priorities, they may not always be feasible in a flyaway situation. Similarly, reporting the incident to local authorities is important but often follows the immediate steps of notifying ATC and assessing the situation.