What should a remote pilot do if they notice maintenance issues with their RPA?

If a remote pilot notices maintenance issues with their Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA), the appropriate course of action is to address the issues before further operation. This is critical for several reasons.

First and foremost, safety is the primary concern in aviation. Any maintenance issue could compromise the performance and reliability of the aircraft, leading to potential malfunctions during flight. By addressing the issues beforehand, the pilot ensures that the aircraft operates within safe parameters, reducing the risk of accidents.

Additionally, addressing maintenance problems aligns with regulatory requirements and best practices in aviation management. Pilots are responsible for the airworthiness of their RPA, and neglecting maintenance can lead to violations of aviation safety regulations. By taking the time to fix any identified issues, the pilot maintains compliance and upholds the integrity of flight operations.

In the context of operational integrity, skipping maintenance could damage the equipment further, potentially resulting in more expensive repairs or complete operational failures in future missions. Therefore, addressing the maintenance issues before conducting further operations is the most responsible and rational decision.