A2 CofC – Certificate of Competency Drone Training Course

Course Content:

Course Overview

• Introduction to the course outlining its structure and components.
• Overview of DMARES methodology, e-learning materials, and theoretical examinations.
• Addressing issues and support related to the A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC).

Module 0 - Course Introduction

• Introduction to the curriculum and training methodology.

Module 1 - Air Law

• Overview of the principles of air law and its legal framework for UAS operations.
• Emphasis on safety aspects and measures for drone operators.
• Introduction to key legal terms and definitions in air law.
• Understanding of the minimum requirements and compliance for drone operations.
• Different operating categories for unmanned aircraft operations.
• Addressing residual articles, especially Article 241 and its implications.
• Responsibilities of UAS operators and remote pilots.
• Guidance on collision avoidance with “See and Avoid” principles.
• Introduction to CAP 722 – Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
• Incident reporting procedures and the importance of reporting.
• UAS operation insurance considerations.
• Different classes of airspace and their implications.
• Understanding various phases of UAS flight.
• Addressing NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) procedures.

Module 2 - Meteorology

• Methods for obtaining and interpreting weather information.
• Overview of weather reporting resources.
• Insight into reports, forecasts, and meteorological conventions.
• Effects of weather on unmanned aircraft.
• Visibility factors affecting UAS operations.
• Importance of cloud formations for drone operations.

Module 3 - UAS Flight Performance

• Operational envelope of rotorcraft, fixed-wing, and hybrid UAS configurations.
• Explanation of the ring vortex state.
• Operating guides and best practices for UAS flights.
• Overview of flight controllers and sensors.
• Emergency procedures for UAS operations.
• System maintenance for UAS reliability.
• Aircraft airworthiness considerations.
• Understanding payload and all-in weights for UAS.
• Mass, balance, and centre of gravity principles.
• Battery considerations, safety, and management for UAS operations.

Module 4 - UAS Operating Principles

• Focus on Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) operations.
• Collision avoidance with “See and Avoid” principles.
• Decision-making processes during UAS operations.
• Occurrence reporting and investigation procedures.
• Operations in congested areas and their considerations.
• Medical fitness requirements for UAS pilots.
• Technical and operational mitigations for ground risk.

Module 5 - Administration and Examinations

• Administrative aspects of the course.
• Resources for candidates and access to virtual classrooms.