THE-CONTEXT:

“First, the test engineer was incorrectly instructed or trained on how to take telemetry readings when approaching the MQ-9A while the engine was running. Second, she lost situational awareness while walking around the mishap aircraft taking telemetry readings with a hand-held measurement device.”

The report said that Cosme “was looking down at the testing device the whole time, and appeared to be pressing buttons, possibly to keep the backlight on”. It added that someone began walking towards Cosme, “shouting and waving his arms in an attempt to get [her] attention”.

“Others began shouting and waving to get [Cosme’s] attention as well,” the report said. It added: “Without looking up to determine her position relative to the aircraft, [Cosme] proceeded to walk directly into the propeller … sustaining fatal injuries.”