What should remote pilots do if they lose control of their sUAS?

When a remote pilot loses control of their sUAS (small Unmanned Aircraft System), the appropriate immediate action is to attempt to regain control and assess the situation. This approach allows the pilot to understand the nature of the problem and decide on the best course of action. By assessing the situation, the pilot can evaluate whether the loss of control is temporary and if it is possible to safely regain control without endangering people or property on the ground.

In many cases, the loss of control might only be temporary, and the pilot may be able to re-establish communication or control over the drone. This is crucial because immediate reactions can vary widely depending on the circumstances of the flight and the environment around the drone, which is why making an informed assessment is vital.

Choosing to immediately land the drone could be risky depending on the altitude, position, and surrounding environment. Calling emergency services would not be necessary unless there was an imminent threat to life or property, which the pilot should first determine through their assessment. Continuing to fly in the hopes of recovery is not a safe option since it could lead to further issues, including collisions or other accidents that could pose risks to others.

Therefore, attempting to regain control while assessing the situation represents the best practice