It always comes off before flight as part of the unfolding process. Pull out of pack, unfold arms, pop off cover and drop into pack, turn on, fly away. [emoji1360]
I am new and lucky so far. Manned aircraft pilots have a saying about "gear up landings" that applies...."There are those that have and then there are those that will." I, like any other honest pilot, have started the engine to see a red and white "REMOVE BEFORE FLIGHT" cover still sitting on the pitot tube. A checklist that works for you is one of the best approaches to a successful flight. I am still developing one for my MA2. The checklist should be in your words and a flow that works. Glad if I ever leave the gimbal cover on it is not a certain death for the gimbal!
Yes I did forget. But I have made two additions: one plastic bag and one wire – See photos.
The RED and LONG wire is attached to the gimbal case – you simply cannot miss it AND you will find the gimbal case if you misplace it.
The NOT SO THIN plastic bag is to wrap the drone and makes it easy to pack and unpack it from the drone case (keeps the arms in order).
Good luck! //Jorge