DECIDE Model for Part 107 Pilots: Making Safe and Informed Decisions
If you’re planning to become a Part 107 pilot and fly a drone commercially, you must be aware of the importance of proper planning and decision-making. A critical part of the Part 107 regulations is to ensure the safety of people and property, which is why it’s crucial to make informed decisions before every flight.
To help Part 107 pilots make sound decisions, the FAA has introduced the DECIDE model. DECIDE stands for Detect, Estimate, Choose, Identify, Do, and Evaluate. It’s a six-step process that Part 107 pilots can use to make better decisions and prevent accidents or incidents while flying drones.
Let’s take a closer look at each step of the DECIDE model:
Detect: The first step is to detect the problem or potential hazard. This could be something as simple as detecting an obstacle in the flight path or noticing a change in the weather conditions that could affect the flight. It’s essential to be aware of any potential hazards and identify them early on.
Estimate: The second step is to estimate the impact of the hazard. In this step, the Part 107 pilot must determine the severity of the hazard and its potential impact on the flight. For example, if there’s a sudden gust of wind, the pilot should estimate how it could affect the drone’s stability and maneuverability.
Choose: The third step is to choose the best course of action. In this step, the Part 107 pilot must consider the options available and select the best one. For example, the pilot could choose to fly around the obstacle or land the drone and wait for the wind to calm down.
Identify: The fourth step is to identify any potential risks associated with the chosen course of action. The Part 107 pilot must identify any additional hazards or risks associated with the chosen option and determine whether it is safe to proceed.
Do: The fifth step is to implement the chosen course of action. In this step, the Part 107 pilot must put the plan into action and fly the drone according to the chosen course of action.
Evaluate: The final step is to evaluate the outcome of the decision. After the flight, the Part 107 pilot must review the flight and evaluate whether the chosen course of action was the right one. If not, the pilot should identify what went wrong and how to avoid making the same mistake in the future.
By following the DECIDE model, Part 107 pilots can make informed decisions that reduce the risk of accidents or incidents while flying drones. It’s essential to remember that safety should always be the top priority, and making sound decisions is critical to ensure that everyone involved in the flight remains safe.
In conclusion, if you’re a Part 107 pilot, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the DECIDE model and use it every time you plan to fly a drone commercially. By doing so, you’ll be able to make informed decisions that prioritize safety and reduce the risk of accidents or incidents during flights.
