EASA Endorsement Module: Transport and/or Dropping of Cargo

• Understand EASA regulations and operational limitations concerning the transport and dropping of cargo by UAS.
• Master principles of mass and balance specifically related to variable and external payloads.
• Learn methods for securely attaching, carrying, and releasing different types of cargo.
• Analyze the effects of cargo (internal/external, shifting loads) on UAS flight characteristics, stability, and performance.
• Develop proficiency in planning and executing missions involving cargo transport and/or dropping, including site assessment for drop zones.
• Implement risk assessment and mitigation strategies specific to cargo operations, including risks to third parties on the ground.
• Practice emergency procedures related to cargo operations (e.g., payload jettisoning if applicable and safe).
• Successfully complete theoretical and practical assessments for this specialized endorsement.

- A valid EASA remote pilot certificate (e.g., Open A2 with relevant authorisation, STS certificate, or RPCT for Specific Category).
- Thorough understanding of UAS mass and balance principles.
- Practical flight skills on the relevant UAS type.

This module blends crucial theoretical understanding with practical application for cargo operations. Key topics include:

Theoretical Knowledge:

• Regulations and Authorisations: EASA rules and national provisions for UAS cargo operations.
• Payload Management: Types of cargo, securing mechanisms, Centre of Gravity (CG) calculations with variable loads.
• Flight Dynamics with Cargo: Impact of internal/external loads on aerodynamics, stability, control, and battery endurance.
• Dropping Mechanisms & Techniques: Types of release systems, precision dropping considerations, and environmental factors.
• Operational Planning: Mission planning for cargo delivery/dropping, selection of routes, identification of safe pick-up and drop-off zones.
• Risk Assessment: Specific hazards associated with carrying and releasing items (e.g., falling objects, shifting loads, snagging).
• Emergency Procedures: Managing in-flight emergencies with cargo, including safe jettisoning procedures if applicable.

Practical Flight Training:

• Pre-flight inspection of UAS and cargo attachment/release systems.
• Practice in securely attaching and detaching various types of simulated payloads.
• Flight exercises with different payload configurations to experience changes in handling characteristics.
• Maneuvers for transporting cargo to a designated point.
• Controlled dropping of simulated cargo at specified targets.
• Emergency drills related to payload malfunctions or unexpected flight behavior.

Practical, hands-on training is essential. This involves actual flight exercises focused on:

• Proper methods for securing various types of (simulated) cargo to the UAS.
• Conducting flights with different payload weights and distributions to understand their impact on UAS behavior.
• Performing precise maneuvers for delivering cargo to a target location.
• Practicing controlled dropping techniques.
• Responding to simulated in-flight issues related to the cargo or its mechanism.

Assessment for the Transport and/or Dropping of Cargo Endorsement Module typically includes:

• A theoretical knowledge examination on cargo-specific regulations, procedures, and safety considerations.
• A practical skills assessment involving the planning and execution of a simulated cargo transport and/or dropping mission, demonstrating safe handling and precise operation.

Successful completion is required to obtain the endorsement.

- EASA certified remote pilots (e.g., A2, STS, RPCT qualified) whose operational scope includes transporting items or delivering/dropping payloads.
- Professionals in logistics, delivery services, agriculture (e.g., precision seeding/spraying of non-dangerous goods), construction, or emergency services (e.g., delivery of small medical supplies).
- UAS operators looking to offer specialized cargo transport or dropping services.