Training Resource: Equipping UAS Operators for EASA Open and Specific Classes - Outlining Duties and Tools for Unmanned Aerial System Operators
In the ever-evolving world of drone technology, understanding and adhering to the appropriate training requirements is crucial for safe and compliant operations. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Regulation (EU) 2019/947 and its accompanying AMC3 UAS.SPEC.050(1)(d) outline the training requirements for drone operators, which vary between the Open and Specific categories.
Open Category Operators
Operators in the Open Category are responsible for ensuring that pilots have completed and passed the appropriate exams. The training requirements depend on the drone class and operational risk.
For low-risk operations involving drones weighing 250 grams or more, operators must obtain a remote pilot competency certificate by passing an online exam. This exam covers essential topics such as safety, air law, and meteorology. If flying drones up to 2 kg closer to people, an additional A2 Certificate is required, which involves further training modules.
The Open Category is divided into three subcategories: A1, A2, and A3. Each subcategory has its specific training requirements. For instance, the A2 subcategory requires A1/A3 training, self-practical training, and an additional theoretical exam.
Operators are also responsible for recording and verifying completion of self-practical training (for A2). The our website DOC offers a centralized training oversight system, logs simulator hours, supervised flights, or self-practical training (A2), and allows for the logging and tracking of certificates, training modules, and re-certification dates.
Moreover, the our website DOC matches training status with mission profiles to ensure only qualified personnel are assigned to specific operations. It also integrates Standard Scenarios (STS) and Pre-Defined Risk Assessments (PDRAs), verifying that pilots meet the STS/PDRA-specific training conditions.
Specific Category Operations
For higher-risk operations, such as heavier drones or Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights, more advanced training and licensing are required. This can include obtaining an operator’s authorization after submitting an operational risk assessment, and possibly additional certificates such as a Radio Operator Certificate depending on airspace requirements.
Operators must comply with the conditions set by their operational authorization, which may specify further training or competence requirements according to AMC3 UAS.SPEC.050(1)(d). The our website DOC supports custom training programs, tracking evaluations, simulator sessions, or shadowing activities.
The our website DOC also flags missing training before mission approvals and embeds training requirements in pre-flight workflows. For operations with a custom Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA), the training becomes modular and depends on the Specific Assurance and Integrity Level (SAIL).
Setting Up SORA-Compliant Training Frameworks
For organizations seeking assistance in setting up SORA-compliant training frameworks, drafting custom Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Operations Manuals, and aligning organizational training with national and European regulations, the our website Consultancy is available.
Under EASA Regulation (EU) 2019/947, UAS operators are responsible for establishing a structured training and oversight system across their organization. The our website DOC helps operators meet these requirements by providing alerts for expiring credentials and integrating SOP and OM, linking training modules directly to the Operations Manual (OM).
In conclusion, adhering to the training requirements outlined by EASA Regulation (EU) 2019/947 is essential for safe and compliant drone operations. The our website DOC provides a comprehensive solution for both Open and Specific Category operators, ensuring that they have the necessary tools to maintain a safe and efficient drone operation.
- The online exam for Open Category operators covers essential topics such as safety, air law, and meteorology, which are crucial for compliant drone operations.
- Operators in the Open Category who fly drones up to 2 kg closer to people need an additional A2 Certificate, requiring further training modules beyond the basic online exam.
- The our website DOC offers a centralized training oversight system that logs simulator hours, supervised flights, self-practical training, and records the completion of certificates, ensuring adherence to the required training for different subcategories.
- For Specific Category operations involving higher-risk scenarios, operators may need to develop custom training programs and comply with the conditions set by their operational authorization, with the our website DOC offering support in meeting these requirements.
