February 24, 2026
Before flying a drone, safety and preparation are crucial. Just as you would check mirrors, fuel gauge and fasten seatbelts before driving a car, drone pilots must follow a pre-flight checklist to avoid accidents or equipment damage. Whether you’re flying recreationally or commercially, skipping these steps can put your drone, footage, and even people around you at risk.
Here’s a step-by-step checklist every drone pilot should complete before takeoff:
Check the weather at your planned flight location in advance. Be aware of strong winds, rain, or high humidity, as these conditions can impact flight stability and battery life. Reliable weather websites and apps provide up-to-date conditions. For pilots in regions with distinct wet and dry seasons, such as parts of Nigeria or Kenya, pay special attention to sudden changes and localised storms.
Know the airspace you’re flying in. While countries often follow ICAO standards (Classes A–G), specific national rules and restricted zones vary widely. For example:
Flying in restricted zones without authorisation can result in significant fines or seizure of equipment.
Ensure your drone case contains everything you need: the drone, remote controller, charged batteries, SD cards, and any necessary certification/registration papers. Keep a physical copy of registration with each drone, or at least a digital copy. In countries like South Africa and Kenya, where drone regulations are strictly enforced, having your Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) and drone registration documents ready is non-negotiable.
Inspect all batteries for signs of swelling, dents, or damage. Label them for rotation and easy tracking. If a battery looks swollen or bulging, do not use it. Secure the battery compartment to prevent it from dislodging mid-flight. Given the sometimes extreme temperatures in many African countries, proper LiPo battery storage (not leaving them in a hot vehicle) is vital for safety and longevity.
Carefully check the propellers, gimbal guard, and SD card slot. Replace damaged propellers immediately, and confirm all components are firmly attached.
Inspect the area for potential hazards, including people, buildings, trees, and power lines. Choose an open location with clear surroundings to minimise risks and interference. Be especially mindful of critical infrastructure and high-security zones, which are often strictly prohibited for drone flight across the continent.
Install the battery properly and confirm it locks in place. A loose battery can disconnect mid-flight, causing the drone to crash.
Check that the antennas are attached and positioned correctly. Test all buttons, joysticks, and connections before powering on the device.
Select a flat, clear surface for takeoff and landing. Uneven terrain can damage propellers, scratch the drone frame, or jam the gimbal. A portable landing pad can be particularly helpful in rough environments, which are common when flying for agricultural, mapping, or humanitarian projects across the continent.
Always follow the correct sequence:
Remote → Drone → GPS → Home Point
The remote connects first, then the drone searches for GPS, and finally establishes a home point. Test the Return-to-Home function to ensure the drone returns to your chosen spot. Also, check your display for calibration warnings, gimbal function, and SD card readiness.
Before liftoff, scan the skies for birds, aircraft, or other drones. Always maintain a Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) unless you have specific Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) approval, which is granted in a limited number of countries, often for specialised operations such as medical deliveries in Ghana or Rwanda. Once your pre-flight checklist is complete, you’re ready for a safe and confident flight.
For more tips, check out our guide on How to Choose the Right Drone for Your Project.
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