Before flight, which weather factors should be checked to ensure safe operation?

• A. Weather affects only GPS accuracy.
• B. Weather affects visibility, wind, and battery performance; check conditions before flight.
• C. Weather never impacts flight.
• D. Weather affects only the drone's color.

Answer: (D)

Weather directly affects safety-critical aspects of flight, so checking it before takeoff is essential. Visibility determines whether you can see the drone and obstacles to avoid collisions. Wind influences stability, control effort, and energy use; gusty or strong winds can push the drone off course or require more power to maintain position. Temperature and weather conditions also impact battery performance, reducing capacity and flight time in cold or extreme conditions, and moisture or ice can affect sensors and propulsion. Because of these factors, knowing the forecast and current conditions helps you decide whether it’s safe to fly, postpone, or adjust your plan.

Other statements misstate the impact of weather: color has no effect on flight, and weather’s influence isn’t limited to GPS accuracy or nonexistent.