What can lead to Loss of Link in remotely piloted aircraft systems?

The correct answer focuses on equipment failure and interference as significant factors that can lead to a Loss of Link in remotely piloted aircraft systems. Loss of Link refers to the moment when communication between the aircraft and the ground control station is disrupted. This disruption can be caused by various forms of electronic interference, such as radio frequency interference from other devices or systems operating on similar frequencies. Additionally, equipment failure, including issues with the aircraft's onboard transmitter or the ground control station, can impede communication.

In practice, ensuring robust and reliable communication is crucial for the safe operation of UAS. Operators must be aware of their surroundings and potential sources of interference, and they should maintain their equipment to prevent failures. By actively managing these risks, operators can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing a Loss of Link during flight operations.

Other factors, like battery power, pre-flight checks, and pilot error, can influence the overall safety and performance of the UAS, but they do not specifically point to the communication breakdown aspect tied to Loss of Link. While low battery power might result in a loss of power to the aircraft and lead to operational issues, and not conducting adequate pre-flight checks can lead to undetected issues, these do not directly correlate to the communication protocol failure