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First Flight Checklist

This section provides a structured checklist for the first powered flight using JTA-01. Following these steps reduces risk and helps identify configuration or integration issues early.

Pre-Flight Inspection (Before Power-On)​

Perform this inspection before applying power to the vehicle.

Mechanical Checks​

❏ JTA-01 securely mounted with vibration isolation
❏ Orientation arrow pointing forward
❏ All fasteners tightened and secured
❏ Propellers correctly installed and tightened (only after setup is complete)
❏ No structural cracks or loose components

Electrical Checks​

❏ All connectors fully seated
❏ No exposed conductors or damaged insulation
❏ Power cables secured and strain-relieved
❏ ESCs and motors correctly wired

Pre-Arm Checks (Powered, Disarmed)​

After powering the system but before arming: ❏ Ground control software shows no critical warnings
❏ Battery voltage displayed correctly
❏ RC inputs responding correctly
❏ Flight modes switching as expected
❏ GPS lock achieved (if using GPS modes)

⚠️ Warning
If any warnings or errors are present, do not proceed.

Motor Direction and Output Verification​

Before attempting flight:

With Propellers Removed​

❏ Verify correct motor numbering
❏ Verify correct motor rotation direction
❏ Verify smooth motor response at low throttle

Reverse motor direction or swap phases if required.

First Hover / Initial Movement Test​

Multirotor Platforms​

Choose a wide, open area
Arm the vehicle
Slowly increase throttle until light on the landing gear
Observe stability and control response

Abort immediately if:

  • Vehicle tips aggressively
  • Motors spin unevenly
  • Control response is incorrect

Fixed-Wing / Rover Platforms​

Perform taxi or low-speed movement tests
Verify steering and throttle response
Confirm correct failsafe activation when disarmed

Initial Flight Behaviour Observation​

During the first short flight:

  • Observe attitude stability
  • Observe yaw behaviour
  • Monitor battery voltage
  • Watch for excessive vibration or oscillation

ℹ️ Note
Keep the first flight short and controlled.

Post-Flight Checks​

After landing and disarming:

Hardware Inspection​

❏ Motors and ESCs not excessively hot
❏ No loose fasteners
❏ No damaged wiring

Software Review​

❏ Review system messages
❏ Check flight logs for errors or warnings
❏ Confirm sensor health

Address any anomalies before the next flight.

Incremental Flight Expansion​

Do not attempt advanced modes immediately.

Recommended progression:

  • Manual or stabilized flight
  • Altitude-hold (if applicable)
  • Position-hold
  • Autonomous or mission modes

ℹ️ Note
Incremental testing ensures safe and predictable operation.

First Flight Completion Criteria​

The first flight is considered successful when: ❏ Vehicle arms and disarms reliably
❏ Stable hover or controlled movement achieved
❏ No persistent warnings or errors
❏ Logs show normal sensor behaviour

Once these criteria are met, the system is ready for routine operation and tuning.