UAS Crewmember/ Operator Requirements

This weeks module looked at UAS Crew-member/ Operator Requirements and required analyzing the operation of medium and large UAS in the NAS, most specifically pertaining to training and certification. I considered the Seeker 400 UAS which is manufactured in South Africa by a company called DENEL. DENEL specializes in defense, security, aerospace and related technology solutions. With a weight of 1000lbs (450kg), a range of up to 700km, a payload capacity of 220lbs (100kg) and service ceiling of 18000ft AGL (above ground level), (DENEL Dynamics, 2019) this UAV is suitable for various commercial activities. However due to the size, operating capabilities and complexity of the systems which it uses, careful pilot screening and testing will be a prerequisite. 

What do you think are the most important factors when selecting, certifying, and training UAS Operators?

A candidate for a UAS operator position should be medically fit to operate a UAS with no history of mental illness or psychological issues. The candidate should have no criminal record and should be vetted to ensure that they are issued with security clearance. It is also necessary for the candidate to be able to perform under stressful conditions without losing situational awareness. Candidates should also have a thorough understanding of UAS and the regulation and legislation pertaining to UAS.

How much does the size and capability of the UAS drive the requirements for crewmember/operator qualification?

As is the case with most things that require training and qualification, the complexity of a UAS and the level of training and qualification required to operate that UAS are directly proportional. For small UAS where the systems are basic and the capability of the UAS are limited, the level of training and qualification that are required may not be as extensive as that which is required to operate the Seeker 400. That being said however with all things considered, a small UAS still has the potential to cause catastrophic accidents if it collides with a manned aircraft and therefore proper standards and regulation for training and qualifications to operate small UAS is still entirely necessary.

How much training do you think is required to safely operate a UAS in the NAS?

To ensure that optimum and safe operations of UAS in the NAS, operators need to possess certification, qualifications and should have completed the necessary training relevant to the class of UAS which they are operating. All operators, regardless of the class of UAS which they are operating, should require a valid class 1 medical certificate to operate in the NAS. Certain medical conditions can cause a UAS operator to lose consciousness or suddenly experience an impaired medical state which causes them to be unable to control their UAS to avoid collisions. The class 1 medical certificate is necessary because (as highlighted above) even a micro UAS can cause a devastating accident if it collides with a manned aircraft or even a medium/ large UAS that is carrying people. This medical class is the same as that which is required for commercial pilot operations and will ensure that the pilot will be fit to operate the UAS. Licencing must include a Remote Pilot Certificate as stipulated in 14 CFR 107, as well as a commercial pilots license. A commercial pilots license would ensure that the pilot is familiar with the required level of airspace knowledge, legislation as well as radio-telephony required to operate in controlled airspace. This license also ensures that the pilot has an in-depth knowledge of navigation and meteorology. A minimum number of hours of flying time (100 hours) on UAS (operational or an approved simulator) should also be required to fly in the NAS. It is advisable that operators have a certificate in the operation of dangerous goods which is a requirement for many commercial aviation companies. In order to operate as a qualified pilot it is compulsory to pass a written examination as well as to pass a practical flight test conducted by a designated examiner. The pilot should be required to do a minimum of hours of practical on-the-job training (50 hours) to familiarize themselves with the aircraft as well as all of the operational requirements and company standard operating procedures.