What should be done if a UAS experiences an unexpected change in flight behavior?

The correct action in the event of an unexpected change in flight behavior of a UAS is to inspect the UAS for damage and review logs. This approach emphasizes the importance of assessing the situation before taking further action. By inspecting the UAS, operators can identify any physical issues that might have caused the abnormal flight behavior, such as mechanical failures or damage to the aircraft. Reviewing logs can provide crucial information about the flight variables leading up to the change, such as battery status, GPS accuracy, or any warning messages that may have been recorded.

Prioritizing an assessment allows the operator to make informed decisions about how to proceed safely. It's essential to analyze the condition and performance of the UAS to determine if it is safe to continue the mission, require landing, or take other necessary precautions. In the context of aviation safety, understanding the root cause of the issue plays a critical role in preventing potential accidents or further complications.

Other choices may involve taking immediate actions that do not prioritize necessary assessments. Continuing the mission without understanding the underlying problem could lead to dangerous situations, aborting operations and landing without inspection may result in missing critical insights, and notifying ATC without resolving the flight anomaly does not address the core issue at hand.