process
If you have a drone that weighs more than 2kg (or are not satisfied with the limitations imposed by the A2 Sub-category) 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) there are many different UAS on the market, just remember to purchase the right drone for the type of operations you intend to undertake, if you need further guidance on choosing the right UAS for you and your business please contact a member of the team who will be able to offer their advice.
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
Sign up to the RUAS GVC course (£500). Complete the six online training modules, accessible anywhere provided you have a mobile phone/tablet/laptop/desktop computer and internet access.
Stage 4
Attend a one-day classroom-based theory day located in our Newport training facility, there are different dates to choose from, a member of the team will assist you in choosing the option that best suits you. Please remember to carefully read your joining instructions as this will indicate what kit and equipment you will require for the duration of the course. You will sit the online exam while in the classroom. You are entitled to one free resit (if you need it).
Stage 5
Prepare your Operations Manual, a RUAS instructor will guide you through this process, templates are available on the online learning portal. Once you have completed this template based on the type of operations you intend to conduct, a member of the team will verify your first draft informing you of any advised/required changes to satisfy the CAA requirements and ensure a smooth OA application.
Stage 6
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 day’s 1:1 Flight Training to get you started, the instructor will tailor the training to your current skill level and experience and can also include a mock flight assessment if requested.
Stage 7
Arrange a date and time to sit your practical Flight Assessment, the Flight Assessment will take place at RUAS’ Flying Site, this is located a 20-minute drive from our Newport Training Facility. Prior to attending your flight assessment, you will have been expected to produce a desktop survey of the area identifying any risks in and around the vicinity. Once on site you will then progress to completing your On-site survey and risk assessment. During the practical flying element of the assessment, you will be directed by the flight assessor, full detail of the flight assessment process will be sent to you prior to attendance. You are entitled to one free resit (if you need it).
Stage 8
Once you have passed the Flight Assessment you will then receive your GVC certificate.
Stage 9
You can now submit your application to the CAA to apply for your Operational Authorisation, this must be completed by the individual, however, our RUAS instructors can guide you through the process where required. Applications can be made by clicking here. The CAA will require a copy of your Operations Manual, proof of 2 hours flying experience in the previous three months and a copy of your GVC certificate.
Stage 10
Once approved by the CAA you will receive your Operational Authorisation via email – for new applications this will be a PDRA 01 – (Pre-defined risk assessment) as detailed within CAP 722, this will be valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
If you plan to operate outside of these conditions you can apply to the CAA for an Enhanced Operational Authorisation, this will require an Operational Safety Case (OSC) that is far more detailed than your current Operations Manual and must outline exactly how and where you intend to operate. The application also costs a lot more, if you require further advice on Enhanced Operational Authorisations, the RUAS team will be on hand to offer guidance.
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