Post-Crash Drone Inspection: What to Check Before Powering Up

Document and inspect without power

• Photograph the aircraft, battery and detached parts.
• Remove the battery and propellers.
• Check frame joints, shell seams, motor mounts, connectors, antennas, wiring and moisture.
• Rotate every motor slowly and compare play, sound and resistance.
• Inspect the gimbal and ribbon cables without forcing movement.

Decide whether a power test is appropriate

Do not power an aircraft with a damaged battery, shorted wiring, liquid exposure, broken structure or uncertain propulsion system. Use manufacturer or qualified repair when flightworthiness is uncertain.

Return to flight gradually

• Use a known-good battery and propeller-off electronics check where supported.
• Review errors and sensor values.
• Fit confirmed-good propellers.
• Perform a brief low hover, land and reinspect.