Guide to Drone Pilot Certification Jargon

Navigating the world of drone pilot certification can be confusing, especially when faced with a lot of jargon. Understanding these terms is crucial for anyone looking to fly drones either commercially or as a hobby. This guide will help you decipher the common terms you’ll encounter in the certification process.

Whether you are new to drone flying or looking to take your certification to the next level, getting a handle on these terms will save you time and make the whole experience less daunting.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding certification jargon is crucial for commercial and hobby drone flying.
• Knowing common terms eases the certification process in places like New Zealand.
• Grasp the basics to take your drone certification to the next level.

Common Drone Certification Jargon And What It Means

Understanding drone certification jargon can be daunting. Key topics include differences in certification parts, different types of airspace, and critical documents like NOTAMs.

Part 101 Vs. Part 102

Part 101 regulations cover low-risk drone use and model aircraft operations. It includes restrictions on safe flying, height limits, and airspace regulations. Operators do not need specific training or certification but must follow established safety rules and guidelines. This typically allows recreational flights to be undertaken freely without certification, as well as certain commercial flights such as photography.

Part 102 deals with higher-risk drone operations. It involves stringent requirements including comprehensive training, operational manuals, risk assessments, and obtaining a suitable insurance policy. Certification under Part 102 authorises operators to conduct various commercial activities beyond the limitations of Part 101, such as agricultural spraying.

RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft System)

RPAS is the broader term encompassing all components required for flight including the drone, control station, data link, and any other required support equipment. RPAS operations must comply with Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of New Zealand and Aviation Security Service regulations. Understanding RPAS is crucial for operators as it emphasises the holistic approach to managing and controlling unmanned aircraft.

UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)

UAV is another term for drones. It refers to the aircraft itself, without a human pilot onboard. In the context of regulations and certifications, UAVs are part of the larger RPAS category.

Visual Line Of Sight (VLOS)

VLOS operation means keeping the drone within the pilot’s direct, unaided visual sight at all times. It ensures better situational awareness, hazard detection, and collision avoidance. CAA mandates this rule to minimise risks to manned aircraft and persons on the ground. VLOS operations usually restrict flights to lower altitudes and less complex environments.

Beyond Visual Line Of Sight (BVLOS)

BVLOS operations allow drones to operate beyond the direct visual range of the pilot. These operations require advanced technological solutions such as detect-and-avoid systems and reliable communication links. BVLOS is essential for applications like long-range inspections, deliveries, and large-scale agricultural monitoring. Pilots must undergo specific training and certification to conduct BVLOS flights legally, which is covered in the 102 pathway.

Airspace Classes (Controlled And Uncontrolled Airspace)

Controlled airspace is managed by air traffic control (ATC), requiring unmanned aircraft operators to obtain clearances and adhere to specific instructions. Classes A, C, D, and E are categories of controlled airspace, each with different requirements.

Uncontrolled airspace, such as Class G, does not have ATC services, allowing more freedom. Operators must still observe basic safety protocols and stay vigilant for unforeseen risks.

You may also see airspace referred to in other terms such as Low Flying Zones, Aerodromes, and Control Zones when using tools like Airshare. For better understanding of airspace, you may choose to undertake 101 certification.

NOTAMs (Notice To Airmen)

NOTAMs are essential documents that inform pilots of temporary changes or hazards in the airspace, such as drone test flights, airshows, or emergency response activities. Checking NOTAMs is crucial for accurate flight planning and avoiding restricted areas. Adhering to NOTAMs ensures compliance with aviation regulations and helps maintain safety.

RPAS Pilot Certificate 

An RPAS Pilot Certificate  certifies that a pilot has met all regulatory requirements to operate drones for commercial purposes. You may also hear “unmanned air pilot certificate” and other similar terms used by other organisations. Issued by an CAA-authorised training organisation such as Drone Trust, it involves both theory and practical training components. RPAS Pilot Certificate holders must pass an aeronautical knowledge exam, and demonstrate their ability to pilot the drone without GPS running (also known as ATTI mode). This certification can be issued to either 101 standard or 102 standard. 101 standard is optional under the law, although it allows pilots to operate within 4km of an aerodrome, and ensures the pilot has a thorough understanding of relevant aviation rules. 102 standard is required for anyone who needs to operate outside of the 101 rules..

Additional Terms for 102 Pilots:

Pilots getting into the 102 certification pathway will encounter a lot more jargon, including industry specific terms for their chosen flight activities. Here are a few of the terms you will hear the most.

UAOC (Unmanned Aircraft Operator Certificate)

A UAOC is essential for anyone intending to operate drones for commercial purposes in New Zealand. It certifies that the operator complies with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations. Obtaining a UAOC involves demonstrating knowledge and understanding of safe operational procedures, risk management, and legal responsibilities. It is issued to an organisation, not an individual, and all pilots operating outside of the 101 rules must be inducted onto a UAOC.

Exposition

An exposition is a detailed document outlining how drone operations will be conducted safely and in compliance with CAA regulations. It includes information on the organisation’s structure, procedures, training programs, and risk management strategies. An exposition is a critical component of the UAOC application process.

OCA (Operating Competency Assessment)

An OCA is a broader certification that applies to various types of aviation operations, not just drones. For drone operators, an OCA is the assessment undertaken to induct a 102 RPAS Pilot onto a UAOC, and is repeated yearly to keep their certification up to date. It assesses the operator’s competency in their specific equipment and operating procedures set out in the UAOC, where an RPAS Pilot Cert is broader and covers aspects of aviation rules.

Why Understanding Certification Jargon Matters

Grasping the specific terminology linked to drone pilot certification can influence both operational safety and professional credibility. Knowing the correct jargon ensures compliant and effective drone usage.

Safety & Compliance

Safety is paramount in drone operations. Understanding terms like "no-fly zones", "pre-flight checks", and "airworthiness" ensures that drone pilots operate within legal boundaries.

When pilots know what each term implies, they can better follow mandated procedures. This competence helps them pass prerequisite tests and meet certification standards. Maintenance schedules, emergency protocols, and navigation rules are integral parts of this knowledge base.

Compliance with New Zealand aviation laws demands familiarity with specific jargon, and mastery of these terms aids in avoiding legal repercussions and promotes safer skies.

Professionalism

Professionalism in the drone industry requires more than just flying skills. It's vital to use industry-specific language correctly to communicate effectively with peers, clients, and regulatory bodies.

Terms like "flight logs", "sensor calibration", and "data analysis" form part of regular discussions. Knowing and applying the correct jargon demonstrates a pilot's competency and seriousness about their profession.

Certification jargon also allows for accurate interpretation of complex procedures and guidelines. This enhances a pilot's reputation and ensures that they remain competitive in the field. It ensures consistent, precise execution of tasks, supporting a pilot's role as a dependable professional.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey to drone certification can open many doors. It equips individuals with the skills and knowledge to operate drones safely and efficiently.

DroneTrust, New Zealand’s leading certified drone training provider, offers a seamless pathway to achieving this. We provide fully-online drone courses and examinations, letting learners progress at their own pace.

For those eager to deepen their understanding, the comprehensive modules cover key terminologies and regulations specific to New Zealand. Enrolling with DroneTrust ensures aspiring pilots become confident in their abilities, prepared to handle both personal and commercial drone operations.

Take the next step towards becoming a certified drone pilot. Explore DroneTrust and transform your passion into expertise.