Pre-Flight Operations Procedure
Document ID: ARROW-OPS-2026-0087
Classification: OPERATIONAL
Effective Date: 2026-01-01
Supersedes: ARROW-OPS-2025-0087 Rev 4
1. Purpose
This procedure establishes the standardized sequence for pre-flight verification of Arrow Quiver-class unmanned aircraft systems. Compliance is mandatory for all flight operations.
2. Applicability
| Platform | Configuration | Applicable |
|---|---|---|
| Quiver PT3 | All variants | Yes |
| Quiver Dev-Kit | All variants | Yes |
| Quiver PT2 | Standard only | Partial — see Appendix C |
| Quiver PT1 | — | No |
3. Prerequisites
Before initiating this procedure, verify:
- Pilot-in-command (PIC) holds current certification
- Airspace authorization confirmed for planned operation area
- Weather conditions within operational envelope
- Aircraft maintenance status: FLIGHT READY
- Battery state-of-charge ≥ 90%
- Ground control station operational
4. Equipment Required
| Item | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calibrated multimeter | 1 | For voltage verification |
| Torque wrench (2-10 N·m) | 1 | For fastener checks |
| Inspection mirror | 1 | For underside inspection |
| Logbook | 1 | Current aircraft logbook |
| Checklist card | 1 | Laminated quick-reference |
5. Procedure
5.1 Phase 1 — Documentation Review
Estimated time: 5 minutes
- Verify aircraft identification matches assignment
- Review maintenance logbook for:
- Last inspection date (must be within 25 flight hours)
- Open discrepancies or MEL items
- Component life limits
- Confirm weight and balance within limits for planned payload
- Document weather conditions:
METAR: _________________ Time: _______
Wind: _____ kts @ _____° Gusts: _____ kts
Visibility: _____ SM Ceiling: _____ ft AGL
Temperature: _____°C Humidity: _____%
5.2 Phase 2 — Structural Inspection
Estimated time: 10 minutes
5.2.1 Airframe
| Checkpoint | Criteria | Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Frame tubes | No cracks, dents, or deformation | ☐ |
| Motor arms | Secure, fold mechanism locked | ☐ |
| Landing gear | Secure mounting, no damage | ☐ |
| Fasteners | All present, torque marks aligned | ☐ |
| Enclosure | Sealed, latches secure | ☐ |
5.2.2 Propulsion
For each motor position (1-4):
| Motor | Propeller | Mounting | Spin Test | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M1 (FL) | ☐ CW secure | ☐ Tight | ☐ Free | ______ |
| M2 (FR) | ☐ CCW secure | ☐ Tight | ☐ Free | ______ |
| M3 (RL) | ☐ CCW secure | ☐ Tight | ☐ Free | ______ |
| M4 (RR) | ☐ CW secure | ☐ Tight | ☐ Free | ______ |
WARNING: Verify propeller rotation direction matches motor position. Incorrect installation will result in loss of control.
5.3 Phase 3 — Electrical Verification
Estimated time: 8 minutes
5.3.1 Battery System
- Remove battery from aircraft
- Perform visual inspection:
- No swelling, damage, or corrosion
- Connector pins clean and straight
- Balance lead intact
- Record measurements:
| Cell | Voltage | Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| S1 | _____ V | 3.7-4.2V | ☐ |
| S2 | _____ V | 3.7-4.2V | ☐ |
| S3 | _____ V | 3.7-4.2V | ☐ |
| S4 | _____ V | 3.7-4.2V | ☐ |
| S5 | _____ V | 3.7-4.2V | ☐ |
| S6 | _____ V | 3.7-4.2V | ☐ |
| Total | _____ V | 22.2-25.2V | ☐ |
| Imbalance | _____ mV | <50mV max | ☐ |
5.3.2 Avionics Power-On
Execute in sequence:
1. Connect battery → Main LED: AMBER
2. Wait 5 seconds → System initialization
3. Verify GPS lock → GPS LED: GREEN (>8 sats)
4. Verify telemetry link → RC LED: GREEN
5. Verify GCS connection → Heartbeat active
5.4 Phase 4 — Functional Test
Estimated time: 5 minutes
5.4.1 Control Surface Verification
With throttle at zero and aircraft DISARMED:
| Input | Expected Response | Verified |
|---|---|---|
| Roll right | Motors 1,3 increase indication | ☐ |
| Roll left | Motors 2,4 increase indication | ☐ |
| Pitch forward | Motors 3,4 increase indication | ☐ |
| Pitch back | Motors 1,2 increase indication | ☐ |
| Yaw right | Motors 1,4 increase indication | ☐ |
| Yaw left | Motors 2,3 increase indication | ☐ |
5.4.2 Failsafe Verification
- With GCS connected, disable RC transmitter
- Verify failsafe activates within 1.5 seconds
- Verify configured failsafe action (RTL/Land/Hold)
- Re-enable RC transmitter
- Verify normal control restored
5.5 Phase 5 — Final Authorization
All items must be marked complete before flight authorization.
PIC Verification:
I have personally verified completion of all checklist items.
Aircraft is airworthy and safe for the planned operation.
PIC Name: _________________________
PIC Signature: ____________________
Date/Time: ________________________
Authorization Status: [ ] CLEARED FOR FLIGHT
[ ] FLIGHT NOT AUTHORIZED
If not authorized, reason: _______________________
6. Abort Criteria
Immediately terminate the pre-flight sequence if any of the following are observed:
- Battery cell voltage <3.5V or imbalance >100mV
- Structural damage or loose fasteners
- Control response incorrect or erratic
- GPS satellites <6 or HDOP >2.0
- Telemetry link loss >3 seconds
- Weather deterioration below minimums
References
- ARROW-SPEC-2026-0142 — XR-7 Propulsion Module Technical Specification
- ARROW-MNT-2026-0023 — Scheduled Maintenance Requirements
- ARROW-SAF-2026-0011 — Emergency Procedures Manual