RAPS

UK air traffic control provider NATS has unveiled a course for those wanting to use drones or remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) for commercial purposes.

During the three-day course, participants will learn several subjects relating to drone flying such as aviation law, meteorological studies, navigation studies, principles of flight and RPAS best practices.

To be launched next month at NATS headquarters in Whiteley, Hampshire, the course also includes a practical flying review to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) approved standards.

NATS said that before being admitted into the course, candidates must demonstrate their skills in flying a drone in a relatively small area.

So far, the company has provided several drone courses from its Control Centre in Prestwick, Ayrshire, Scotland.

"With remotely piloted aircraft systems becoming increasingly popular, we want to be able help people and companies use them safely in the airspace."

NATS RPAS course leader Colin Houston said: "With remotely piloted aircraft systems becoming increasingly popular, we want to be able help people and companies use them safely in the airspace.

"Our tailored training course is provided by air traffic control (ATC) professionals with comprehensive operational RPAS experience."

The new course is also designed to instruct the drone operators about the safety and operational requirements of the CAA.

Before completing the course, participants will have to undergo and pass the theory and practical flying session and will also be required to make and maintain an operating manual/operating safety case, which will be deeply covered during the course, and is an important step towards receiving CAA Permissions and exemptions.

Last January, NATS entered a safety partnership agreement with ARPAS UK, the trade association that represents the operators and stakeholders of small drones, to jointly promote the safe use of small drones to maximise their potential applications and at the same time protect other airspace users.

Image: The new course is designed to instruct the drone operators about the safety and operational requirements of the CAA. Photo: courtesy of NATS Limited.