The General “Visual Line of Sight” Certificate or GVC as it’s more commonly known, is the training and qualification needed to be able to apply to the CAA for an Operational Authorisation. Your operational authorisation will allow you to Operate UAS in the specific category under the new UAS regulations that came into effect on December 31st 2020.
Our CAA approved online PfCO to GVC conversion course is made up of an introduction and 8 other modules as well as a theory exam.
Course Overview
This course is designed to update you on the EU-UAS regulations initiated from December 31, 2020. Beneficial for those possessing a PfCO, it helps in converting it to a GVC to adhere to the latest guidelines. Leverage your existing expertise to potentially bypass the GVC Practical Flight Assessment.
Getting Started
Objective: Familiarise yourself with the course layout, objectives, and necessary terminology.
- Introduction to GVC Course
- Navigating the E-learning Platform
- Understanding the Course Structure
- Important Abbreviations and Acronyms
- GVC Support and Information
- Assessment: End-of-unit Quiz
Module 1: Understanding Air Law and Responsibilities
Objective: Deep dive into the air laws, aircraft classification systems, and EU regulation principles.
- Interactive Learning through Virtual Classroom
- Introduction to UAS IR and DMAreS Framework
- Aircraft and UAS Operating Categories
- Understanding Various Aviation Articles and CAP 722
- Responsibilities of UAS Operator and Remote Pilot
- Assessment: End-of-unit Quiz
Module 2: Mastering Airspace Operating Principles
Objective: Learn about airspace classifications and understand the procedures for UAS airspace operations.
- Virtual Classroom Sessions
- A deep understanding of Airspace and Flight Information Region
- Specific and Temporary Airspace Reservations
- Understanding AIP, AICs, and NOTAMS
- NSF and ENSF Implications
- Assessment: End-of-unit Quiz
Module 3: Airmanship and Safety in Aviation
Objective: Develop the skills needed for safe and successful drone operations.
- Virtual Classroom Training
- Understanding Airmanship Principles
- Airworthiness and Pilot Fitness
- Hazard Identification and Collision Avoidance
- Night Flights and Overflight Regulations
- Assessment: Exam
Module 4: Human Performance and Limitations
Objective: Understand the human factors affecting drone operations.
- Interactive Learning through Virtual Classroom
- Understanding Medical Fitness and Fatigue Management
- Working under Various Weather Conditions
- Management of Crew and Colleagues
- Decision-making Process in Drone Operations
- Assessment: Exam
Module 5: Navigation and Understanding Charts
Objective: Learn about navigation techniques and the interpretation of aviation charts.
- Virtual Classroom for Interactive Learning
- Map Reading and Understanding Air Chart Terminology
- Specialised Charts and Military Low Flying Areas
- Understanding Latitude, Longitude, and GPS Principles
- Assessment: End-of-unit Quiz
Module 6: Meteorology
Objective: Gain insights into meteorology and its implications for drone operations.
- Virtual Classroom for Engaging Learning
- Understanding Weather Reports and Forecasts
- Local Weather Assessments
- Impact of Weather Conditions on Drone Performance
- Cloud Formations and Their Significance
- Assessment: End-of-unit Quiz
Module 7: Aircraft Knowledge
Objective: Provide learners with comprehensive knowledge on the technical aspects of unmanned aircraft, emphasizing safety and optimal operation.
- Virtual Classroom for Engaging Learning
- Understanding Key Abbreviations and Acronyms
- Exploring the Basic Principles of Flight - Aircraft Design and Construction
- Understanding the Principles of Flight
- Diving into Ground Effect
- Understanding Ring Vortex State
- Analysing Torque Effect
- Learning Manual Intervention/Override
- Understanding Flight Control Modes
- Exploring Datalink Frequencies
- Understanding Limitations - Operational Envelope
- Insight into Flight Controller & Sensors
- Learning About Lipo Batteries
- Understanding Mass and MTOM
- Effects of Payload on Flight, COFG, and Stability
- Understanding Operating Guides - Flight Procedures and Emergencies
- Maintenance and Repairs Insight
- Understanding Security of Attached Items
- Learning Manufacturers Recommendations
- Assessment of Drone Safety Before Flight
- Understanding Payload and All-In Weights
- Evaluating UAS Safety Before Flight
- Understanding Technical Mitigations for Ground and Air Risk
- Assessment: End-of-unit Quiz
Module 8: Operating Procedures
Objective: Imbue learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to carry out drone operations safely and efficiently, respecting regulatory standards and privacy concerns.
- Virtual Classroom for Engaging Learning
- Understanding Key Abbreviations and Acronyms
- Pre-Planning - Aligning Operations with Intended Task
- Site Assessment - Ensuring Safe Operating Environment
- Learning about Mitigating Measures
- Understanding Data Protection and Privacy
- Learning the Importance of Site Owners Permission
- Developing Situational Awareness
- Understanding Communication - Pre-Flight Briefing
- Liaising with Air Traffic Control and Other Air Users
- Carrying Out Pre-Flight Checks
- Ensuring Airworthiness and Security of Attachments
- Understanding Failsafe Checks
- Weather Considerations in Drone Operations
- Learning about In-Flight Monitoring
- Creating an Emergency Response Plan
- Understanding Post-Flight Actions
- Exploring Security Measures for Drones
- Assessment: End-of-unit Quiz
Important Information:
Only those with a current Operational Authorisation can undergo this conversion course. If your original CAA Permissions have expired, you'll need to take the complete GVC Course, as mandated by the CAA.
If you possess a valid CAA OA (previously known as PfCO) and an NQE Recommendation Certificate, you can transition your NQE Recommendation Certificate to a General Visual Line of Sight Certificate. This will qualify you for an Operational Authorisation (OA) with extra features like EVLOS (available soon).
For details about the GVC Conversion Course and your eligibility for the GVC upgrade, refer to the provided article, which is filled with valuable information and FAQs.
After purchasing this training package, you'll gain access to our video-based learning platform. The videos will cover everything you need to transition from your NQE Recommendation Certificate to a General Visual Line of Sight Certificate. This transition is mandatory for all Remote Pilots operating under an Operational Authorisation by December 31, 2023.
What is Coptrz Academy?
Coptrz Academy is an OFQUAL accredited drone training provider, meaning that you will be globally recognised as the best of the best. It’s also a quality stamp, it lets people know that you take your training seriously.
At Coptrz Academy, we support our students not just during their training, but after too.
