Crew Resource Management
Roles on a sUA Crew
The remote PIC is responsible for the entire operation. A visual observer (VO) may assist with see-and-avoid but does not relieve the PIC of the duty to see and avoid. A person manipulating the controls may be delegated, but the PIC remains accountable. Effective CRM means clear role assignment, closed-loop communication, and a shared mental model of the mission.
Communication and Briefing
Before flight, brief the mission: flight path, altitudes, hazards, emergency procedures, and who does what. Use standard callouts ("clear left," "traffic at two o'clock," "battery at 30 percent"). Confirm understanding with read-backs. Distractions are a leading cause of sUA incidents - keep conversation focused on the operation.
Workload and Decision-Making
CRM also covers workload management: don't overload one person with flying, observing, and coordinating ATC at once. Use the VO to scan for traffic while the PIC focuses on the aircraft and control station. Recognize fatigue, stress, and complacency as hazards. Speak up: any crew member who sees a hazard should call it out, and the PIC should acknowledge and act.
Traps
Questions often ask whether a VO is required (not generally, but useful) or whether the VO can authorize flight in controlled airspace (no - authorization is separate). Another trap: assuming the person on the controls is always the PIC; the PIC can delegate stick time but not responsibility.
Rule of Thumb
"One mission, one brief, one boss." Brief roles and emergencies before launch, and use read-backs for every critical callout.