Drone exam · UAS flight performance

A spraying drone becomes much lighter as liquid is released. Why should performance planning cover both the start and end of the flight?

Answer

Mass, center of gravity, power demand, and handling can change as the payload is released. The configuration must remain controllable and inside limits throughout the mission, not just at takeoff.

Explanation

A variable payload changes the aircraft continuously. The heaviest point and the most unbalanced point may not be the same moment.