Question

Upon GPS signal loss, what should the remote PIC do?

1) Contact ATC and declare an emergency
2) Perform the planned lost link contingency procedure
3) Operate the sUAS normally, noting to account for any mode or control changes that occur if GPS is lost

Answer 1

The remote Pilot in Command should carry out the planned lost link contingency procedure upon GPS signal loss in a small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS). Declaring an emergency with ATC is generally for more severe situations, and attempting to control the sUAS without GPS can lead to control issues.

Step-by-step explanation:

Upon GPS signal loss, the remote Pilot in Command (PIC) should perform the planned lost link contingency procedure. The operator should have a pre-established procedure for such an event which often involves programming the small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) to either return to a home point, hover in place, or land immediately. Contacting Air Traffic Control (ATC) to declare an emergency is typically reserved for situations where the safety of flight is in immediate danger, and there is a risk of collision with manned aircraft. In most cases, the loss of GPS does not necessitate declaring an emergency. Additionally, operating the sUAS normally without GPS may not be advisable, as the performance and control of the system can be significantly affected without its positioning information.