Do not choose a drone training route based on the certificate name. Choose it based on the operation you need to deliver.
RPC-L1 Part A, RPC-L1 Part B and RPC-L2 are not interchangeable labels.
They sit at different points in the CAA’s competence structure and support different types of operations.
For operators, that matters because the wrong training decision creates either wasted cost or false confidence.
The simple breakdown
The CAA currently describes the structure as follows:
- RPC-L1 Part A: VLOS in the Specific Category
- RPC-L1 Part B: BVLOS with Visual Mitigations
- RPC-L2: VLOS and BVLOS operations in ARC-a where no other air traffic is expected
- RPC-L3: more advanced operations, including BVLOS up to ARC-c
The CAA also says the certificates are designed to support a progressive pathway from VLOS operations through to increasingly complex BVLOS operations.
RPC-L1 Part A: the VLOS foundation
RPC-L1 Part A is the relevant starting point for most professional Specific Category VLOS operations.
It suits pilots who need to operate:
- Commercial VLOS work
- Inspection flights
- Survey flights
- Public safety VLOS operations
- Construction site flights
- Utilities and infrastructure VLOS tasks
It is not a BVLOS qualification.
RPC-L1 Part B: BVLOS with Visual Mitigations
RPC-L1 Part B is the part many operators need to understand more clearly.
The CAA describes it as BVLOS with Visual Mitigations. It is optional and not required to obtain RPC-L1, which can be gained through Part A only.
This matters because some operators will not need Part B now. Others may need it as part of a planned progression route.
The key point: Part B should be bought because it matches an operational requirement, not because it sounds more advanced.
RPC-L2: BVLOS in ARC-a
RPC-L2 is more demanding.
The CAA describes RPC-L2 as covering BVLOS operations in ARC-a where no other air traffic is expected. Entry conditions include Flyer ID, RPC-L1 and a minimum of 50 logged flight hours in the Specific Category. RPC-L2 is valid for three years.
This means RPC-L2 is not something to plan at the last minute.
If your pilots have not built the flight hours, they are not ready for that route.
How operators should choose the right route
Start with the operation.
Ask:
- Are we flying VLOS only?
- Is the work Specific Category?
- Does the OA require RPC-L1?
- Are we planning BVLOS with Visual Mitigations?
- Are we planning ARC-a BVLOS?
- Do pilots have the logged hours required for RPC-L2?
- What is the commercial timeline?
- What authorisation pathway applies?
Training should follow operational design.
Avoid capability theatre
Capability theatre is when an organisation claims advanced drone capability because it has bought equipment, software or a course, but cannot actually evidence the full operating model.
In drone operations, that usually looks like:
- BVLOS claims without appropriate authorisation
- Training claims without flight logs
- Certificates without currency
- Hardware claims without procedures
- Tender claims without operational evidence
The RPC structure makes this harder to sustain.
Where Coptrz adds value
Coptrz can help operators map the route properly:
- RPC-L1 Part A for VLOS foundation
- GVC to RPC-L1 conversion where relevant
- Progression planning for Part B, RPC-L2 and RPC-L3
- Practical training and assessment
- Operational Authorisation and PDRA01 support
This is where a training provider should do more than process bookings. It should help you avoid buying the wrong route.
FAQs
No. The CAA states Part B is optional and not required to obtain RPC-L1, which can be gained by completing Part A only.
No. RPC-L2 entry conditions include Flyer ID, RPC-L1 and a minimum of 50 logged flight hours in the Specific Category.
No. The CAA describes RPC-L2 as BVLOS operations in ARC-a where no other air traffic is expected.
Most Specific Category VLOS pilots should start with RPC-L1 Part A.
Only if future operations justify it. Plan early, but buy training against a clear operational requirement.
If you are unsure whether your pilots need RPC-L1 Part A, Part B or a future RPC-L2 route, speak to Coptrz before booking training. We can help you match the certificate to the operation, the authorisation and the capability you actually need.
Author bio:
Simon Harris is Managing Director of Coptrz, supporting UK drone operators with training, compliance and operational capability planning.
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