The EASA Remote Pilot Complete Training (RPCT) provides comprehensive instruction covering all the minimum theoretical knowledge and practical skill requirements set by EASA for remote pilots conducting Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations within the Specific Category.
This training is essential for pilots whose operations fall outside the scope of EASA Standard Scenarios (STS) and therefore require a SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) based operational authorisation. The RPCT ensures you are equipped to understand and manage the complexities of such advanced UAS operations.
While this course covers the foundational EASA requirements, please note that additional specialised training, such as EASA endorsement modules (e.g., for night operations, BVLOS) or UAS type-specific training, may be necessary depending on the exact nature of the operations described in your operator’s manual and operational authorisation.
If your intended operations can be performed under an EASA Standard Scenario (STS-01/02), the requirements for pilots are different, and our STS training may be more suitable.
Comprehensive EASA Training for Diverse Specific Category UAS Operations (SORA-based)
Course objectives
- Achieve a thorough understanding of EASA regulations applicable to the Specific Category, including operational authorisations and SORA methodology.
- Master advanced concepts in air law, airspace procedures, and communication protocols for complex UAS operations.
- Gain in-depth knowledge of UAS systems, including performance, limitations, airworthiness, and maintenance principles for Specific Category aircraft.
- Develop advanced understanding of meteorology, navigation, and flight planning for challenging operational environments.
- Effectively manage human factors, crew resource management (CRM), and decision-making in high-stakes UAS operations.
- Conduct comprehensive pre-flight planning, on-site risk assessments, and develop robust operational and emergency response plans (ERPs).
- Proficiently execute complex flight maneuvers and operational procedures under various conditions, including managing abnormal situations and emergencies.
- Successfully complete theoretical examinations and practical skills assessments to demonstrate competency.
Prerequisites
- Valid EU remote pilot certificate A1/A3 for the EASA Open Category.
- Sufficient prior flight experience is highly recommended.
- Minimum age may apply (e.g., 16 or 18 years old, to be specified by provider).
Syllabus
The EASA Remote Pilot Complete Training (RPCT) syllabus is designed to cover all EASA-mandated competency areas for remote pilots in the Specific Category. Key areas of study typically include:
- Air Law and EASA Regulations (Specific Category): Operational Authorisations, SORA methodology, operator responsibilities, pilot responsibilities, accident reporting.
- Airspace and Procedures: Advanced airspace classifications, coordination with ATC, flight rules relevant to Specific Category.
- UAS General Knowledge (Advanced): Airframes, powerplants, C2 link, data links, sensors, UAS performance and limitations, mass and balance, airworthiness principles, maintenance.
- Human Performance and Limitations (Advanced): Decision-making, stress management, fatigue, CRM, situational awareness.
- Meteorology (Advanced): Impact of weather on complex UAS operations, advanced forecasting, local effects.
- Navigation (Advanced): GNSS principles and limitations, alternative navigation methods, map reading for complex environments.
- Operational Procedures (Specific Category): Pre-flight planning, site surveys, risk assessment, development of normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures (NCO/ECO/ERP), briefing/debriefing, flight logging, data management.
- UAS Technical Aspects: Including payload integration, battery management, software and firmware.
- Practical Flight Training: Covering all phases of flight for complex scenarios, emergency handling, and mission-specific maneuvers based on typical Specific Category operations.
(Note: The exact module breakdown and practical exercises should be detailed based on the specific curriculum offered.)
Practical content
Practical flight training is a critical component of the RPCT. It is designed to build the skills necessary for safe and efficient UAS operations in the Specific Category. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Advanced pre-flight planning and documentation (flight plans, risk assessments, checklists).
- Comprehensive on-site surveys and dynamic risk management.
- Execution of complex flight maneuvers relevant to various mission profiles (e.g., inspection, mapping, surveillance).
- Managing UAS systems in normal, abnormal, and simulated emergency conditions.
- Application of Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles.
- Effective communication with crew members and external agencies (if applicable).
- Post-flight procedures, data analysis, and reporting.
(The specific practical exercises will depend on the UAS types used and the typical operational scenarios covered by the training provider.)
Exam & assessment
Assessment for the EASA Remote Pilot Complete Training (RPCT) will involve comprehensive evaluations to ensure competency:
- Theoretical Knowledge Examinations: Covering all subjects outlined in the syllabus, typically in a multiple-choice format and/or scenario-based questions.
- Practical Skills Assessment: A flight test conducted by a qualified examiner to demonstrate proficiency in planning and executing complex UAS operations, including normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures, in scenarios representative of the Specific Category.
Successful completion of all assessments is required to receive the Certificate of Completion for RPCT.
Who is it for?
- Remote pilots who need to conduct UAS operations in the EASA Specific Category that are not covered by an EASA Standard Scenario (STS).
- Pilots and operators who will be applying for an Operational Authorisation based on a SORA or PDRA.
- Individuals seeking the most thorough and comprehensive training for advanced, higher-risk drone operations.
- Organisations aiming to develop a high level of internal competency for their UAS flight crews operating in the Specific Category.
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