process
If you have a drone that weighs less than 2kg and you wish to operate under the following conditions:
This is a step-by-step guide of how you can legally fly your drone.
Stage 1
Purchase your drone (if you haven’t already) remember, to fly in the A2 sub-category of the open category your drone must weigh less than 2kg. Drones under 2kg include the DJI Mavic series, DJI Phantom series, Autel Evo 2, Parrot Anafi and the Yuneec Typhoon H, this list is not exhaustive and other drones are available.
Stage 2
Register yourself as a UAS Operator and gain a Flyer ID – it is illegal to fly a drone over 250g without this. The UAS Operator ID must be renewed annually and currently costs £10. To gain a Flyer ID you must sit and pass an online education package once achieved your flyer ID will last for 5 years.
To register click here.
Stage 3
Stage 4
Gain a minimum of 2 hours flying practice with your aircraft in an area that satisfies the requirements of the A3 Sub-category (a large open area >150m away from any residential, recreational, commercial and industrial areas. Make sure you accurately log your flying hours in an electronic logbook (this could be an online app or simply an excel spreadsheet). If you are unsure where to start or are a little bit nervous you could book a half day’s 1:1 Flight Training.
Stage 5
Complete the Self Declaration of flying hours and submit your electronic logbook your RUAS point of contact.
Stage 6
Arrange a date and time to sit your online invigilated A2 CofC exam. When you take the exam, it will be invigilated over a Teams meeting where you will be required to share your screen – the exam will be on the same platform that you will have completed your online training modules. There are a few rules concerning the exam so make sure you read the exam joining instructions carefully. You are entitled to one free resit (if you need it).
Stage 7
Once you have passed the exam you will then receive your certificate – Congratulations, you can now operate in the A2 Sub-category.
training
£1150
Ofqual-regulated GVC, A2 CofC, Flight Training and Assessment Drone Training Course.
£795
RUAS Aerial Data Processing course is the next step in data capture for image processing of GIS data product generation through Agisoft Metashape.
£599
The General Visual Line Of Sight Certificate (GVC) has been developed for the operation of a drone with a MTOM of <25kg within the Specific Category.
£649
This Learning Plan includes both the A2 Certificate of Competency and the General VLOS Certificate combined at a reduced price.
£400
The GVC Transition is specifically aimed at individuals who are already operating under the legacy PFCO or NQE prior to December 2020 and who need to re-qualify.
£150
This course has been specifically designed for those who need guidance in preparing their Operations Manual in order to apply for an Operational Authorisation from the CAA.
