At a high density altitude site, an sUAS lifts off but hovers with motors audibly straining. What does this indicate?

• A.The aircraft has ample reserve power for aggressive maneuvering
• B.The hover is consuming most of the available power, leaving little margin for climb or gusts
• C.The motors are more efficient than usual

Why

Straining at hover means the aircraft is already near its power ceiling just to stay airborne. Any added demand from climbing, wind, or maneuvering may exceed what the motors can deliver.

Source: FAA-G-8082-22 Ch. 8 · ACS knowledge area: Determining the Performance of an sUAS · From the Loading, Performance & Airport Operations practice bank (PER-046).

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More Hover margin at high density altitude questions

• What happens to a multirotor sUAS as its total takeoff weight increases?
• Adding a heavier payload to an sUAS will most directly cause which effect?
• Why must the center of gravity (CG) remain within the limits set by the manufacturer?
• Before takeoff, how should a payload or attached equipment be secured?
• Under Part 107, what is the maximum allowable takeoff weight for an sUAS, including everything attached?