Drone Manufacturer: BirdsEyeView Aerobotics
Drone Model: FireFly6
Country: United States of America
Type: Incident
Date: 2018-06-13
Applies: Daytime
Pilot Qualifications: Unknown Status
Pilot Flight Experience: Unknown Hours
Link to External Information About This submission: https://www.safecom.gov/safecom/18-0357
File Uploaded: None
Description
During vertical takeoff and prior to gear retracting the front gear fell off aircraft at about 40 feet AGL. We transitioned to forward flight and executed flight mission to have time to think of the best solution. During flight, the manufacturer of the aircraft was called but not reached. Then Brad K. was contacted and the situation was discussed. Our best option was to fly aircraft manually over landing pad and motors would be disarmed by MO/GCS operator. This is to limit damage to the motors and electronics and keep rotors from striking the ground under power. This was done successfully and the aircraft was landed undamaged. The aircraft was then checked over on the ground and then flown to ensure proper operation. Aircraft continued missions for the rest of the day without issues.
Reported Cause
Set screws on the gear may become loose over time due to vibration. Check gear prior to takeoff and use locktite when appropriate.