Drone exam · Meteorology

A drone begins a long inspection with a strong tailwind. The outbound leg uses less battery than expected. What weather related trap should the pilot avoid?

Answer

Do not extend the route merely because the outbound leg was efficient. The same wind becomes a headwind on return and may increase power demand and reduce groundspeed.

Explanation

Wind affects the two legs differently. A safe plan considers the most demanding leg and keeps enough energy for the return plus reserve.