During your preflight inspection, you discover that the casing of your sUAS battery has expanded beyond its normal dimensions. What action should you take?

During your preflight inspection, you discover that the casing of your sUAS battery has expanded beyond its normal dimensions. What action should you take?

• A. Return to base and discard the battery
• B. Continue operation if it seems fine
• C. Fly a shorter routine
• D. Follow the manufacturer's guidance

Answer: (D)

A swollen or expanded battery is a clear safety hazard because gas has built up inside the cells, indicating internal damage. The best action is to follow the manufacturer’s guidance. This ensures you handle, dispose of, or replace the battery according to the product’s safety specifications, reducing the risk of fire or thermal runaway. Do not fly, charge, or use a swollen battery. Remove it from the aircraft, keep it isolated in a non-conductive, fire-resistant container as advised, and follow the manufacturer’s disposal or replacement instructions. Following their guidance keeps you compliant with safety standards and protects people and property.

A swollen or expanded battery is a clear safety hazard because gas has built up inside the cells, indicating internal damage. The best action is to follow the manufacturer’s guidance. This ensures you handle, dispose of, or replace the battery according to the product’s safety specifications, reducing the risk of fire or thermal runaway. Do not fly, charge, or use a swollen battery. Remove it from the aircraft, keep it isolated in a non-conductive, fire-resistant container as advised, and follow the manufacturer’s disposal or replacement instructions. Following their guidance keeps you compliant with safety standards and protects people and property.