Remote Pilot Certification And Who Can PIC Over A BVLOS Operation?

The Remote Pilot Certificate is a certification issued by the FAA to individuals who operate drones for commercial purposes. The certificate is also commonly referred to as a Part 107 certification, named after the section of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) that outlines the requirements for commercial drone operations.

To obtain the Remote Pilot Certificate, an individual must meet certain qualifications and pass an aeronautical knowledge test. These qualifications include:

  1. Age: The individual must be at least 16 years old.
  2. English Language Proficiency: The individual must be able to speak, read, write, and understand the English language.
  3. Aeronautical Knowledge Test: The individual must pass an aeronautical knowledge test covering a variety of topics related to drone operations, including airspace regulations, weather, emergency procedures, and other important safety topics. The test is administered by an FAA-approved testing center and consists of 60 multiple-choice questions.
  4. TSA Background Check: The individual must pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check to ensure that they do not pose a security threat to the United States.

Once an individual has met these qualifications and passed the aeronautical knowledge test, they may apply for the Remote Pilot Certificate through the FAA's Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system. Upon approval of the application, the individual will receive a Remote Pilot Certificate, which is valid for two years.

In addition to the requirements listed above, the FAA also requires part 107 remote pilots to comply with a number of other regulations and guidelines related to drone operations, including restrictions on airspace use, requirements for drone registration, and requirements for maintaining a safety management system.

Overall, part 107 certification is an important qualification for individuals who operate drones for commercial purposes. By obtaining this certification, drone operators demonstrate that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to operate drones safely and responsibly, which is critical for obtaining FAA waivers and conducting successful drone operations.

But who can act as a (PIC) that oversees a BVLOS operation relative to rules in the U.S.?

someone in the US who holds a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate can also act as a Remote Pilot in Command sometimes called a PIC or(RPIC) for certain operations that require an PIC. The PIC designation is used specifically for operations that require a waiver from certain Part 107 regulations, such as BVLOS. The PIC is responsible for ensuring that the operation is conducted safely and in compliance with all applicable regulations and guidelines. However, not all Part 107 certificate holders are automatically designated as PICs. The PIC designation is granted on a case-by-case basis by the FAA, depending on the specific operation being conducted and the pilot's qualifications and experience. Canada led the way with the term RPIC. In the U.S. the person performing the same task is commonly called a PIC. It is imprortant to note that some operators may require their PIC also have a class 3 FAA medical certificate among other qualifications.

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What is need to be a PIC that oversees a BVLOS operation?In the context of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements for BVLOS operations in the United States, a BVLOS PIC (Pilot in Command) is a key personnel responsible for conducting such operations.

The FAA has specific requirements for BVLOS operations, which are outlined in the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) Part 107, which govern the commercial operation of small UAS. According to the FAA, a BVLOS PIC must meet the following qualifications:

  1. Remote Pilot Certificate: The BVLOS PIC must hold a remote pilot certificate issued by the FAA under Part 107.
  2. Training and Endorsement: The BVLOS PIC must have received training specific to BVLOS operations and have been endorsed for BVLOS operations by a certified flight instructor.
  3. Visual Observer (VO): The BVLOS PIC must utilize a VO to help maintain visual contact with the UAS at all times during the BVLOS operation. The VO must be in direct communication with the BVLOS PIC and be able to see the UAS without any aids (e.g., binoculars).
  4. Risk Assessment and Mitigation: The BVLOS PIC must conduct a risk assessment of the intended BVLOS operation and implement appropriate risk mitigation measures.
  5. Equipment and Systems: The UAS used for BVLOS operations must meet certain equipment and systems requirements, such as having a remote identification system and a means of detect-and-avoid capability.
  6. FAA Authorization: The BVLOS PIC must obtain authorization from the FAA for conducting BVLOS operations. This may require submitting a detailed operational plan, risk assessment, and other supporting documentation to the FAA for review and approval.
  7. Compliance with Part 107: The BVLOS PIC must also comply with all other requirements of Part 107, such as airspace restrictions, altitude limitations, and operational limitations.

It's important to note that obtaining authorization for BVLOS operations from the FAA can be a complex process and may require significant planning, coordination, and compliance with regulatory requirements. It's essential for operators to thoroughly understand and comply with all applicable regulations to ensure safe and legal BVLOS operations. Additionally, the FAA may impose additional requirements or restrictions on BVLOS operations on a case-by-case basis, depending on the nature of the operation and the airspace in which it is conducted. Operators are encouraged to consult the FAA's official guidance and seek legal advice if necessary to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. Overall, BVLOS operations require specialized training, equipment, and regulatory compliance to ensure safe and legal operations in accordance with FAA requirements. It is important for operators to thoroughly understand and comply with all applicable regulations to conduct BVLOS operations safely and responsibly. Consulting the FAA's official guidance and seeking legal advice if needed can help operators navigate the regulatory landscape for BVLOS operations. Remember, safety should always be the top priority in any UAS operation. Always fly responsibly and adhere to all applicable regulations. Happy flying! Please consult the FAA's official guidance for the most up-to-date information on BVLOS operations. Always prioritize safety and comply with all regulatory requirements to conduct responsible and legal BVLOS operations. Please note that regulatory requirements are subject to change, and it is important to stay updated with the latest information from the FAA. Safe and responsible BVLOS operations can greatly benefit various industries, but it is crucial to comply with all applicable regulations to ensure safe and legal operations. Please refer to the FAA's official guidance and seek legal advice if needed to navigate the regulatory landscape for BVLOS operations.

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