What action should a RPIC take if the aircraft appears to be out of its certified condition before flight?

• A. Proceed with flight anyway
• B. Ground the aircraft and address the issue before flight
• C. Perform a quick in-flight test to verify safety
• D. Delay the decision and fly later in the day

Answer: (B)

If something about the aircraft suggests it’s not in the condition it’s certified for, the Remote Pilot in Command must ground the aircraft and fix the issue before flight. This upholds safety and ensures the aircraft remains airworthy, with maintenance and inspection records valid and in compliance with regulations. Trying to fly anyway would ignore safety standards, a quick in-flight test isn’t a legitimate remedy, and delaying the decision only postpones addressing the defect. Grounding the aircraft gives you the opportunity to correct the issue and verify it’s safe to fly.