Which two aspects are critical in the pre-flight inspection of an sUAS?

The critical aspects of conducting a pre-flight inspection for a small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) primarily focus on ensuring the safety and functionality of the aircraft before takeoff. Checking the propellers and testing ground control connections directly address essential operational components of the sUAS.

The propellers are vital for flight, and ensuring they are in good condition (free from damage and properly secured) helps prevent failure during operation, which could lead to loss of control. Similarly, testing ground control connections is crucial because this system enables the operator to maintain communication with the aircraft and to exert control over its functions. If the ground control connection is weak or unresponsive, it can impede the ability to navigate and respond to the aircraft in real-time, posing a significant risk during flight.

While options regarding battery levels, camera functionality, flight settings, runway conditions, airspace regulations, and weather conditions are important, they do not encompass the fundamental mechanical and communicative checks necessary for a safe operation of the sUAS. Therefore, focusing on the physical integrity of the aircraft and its operational link to the ground control system presents a more immediate concern during pre-flight checks.