General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC) Training Programme

The General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC) training programme is specifically designed for drone operators seeking to upskill from the A2 Certificate of Competence (A2 CofC) and take their capabilities to the next level. This programme focuses on enabling operators to conduct specific category operations and prepares them to apply for an Operational Safety Case (OSC), allowing for more complex and advanced missions.

Who Is This Course For?

• Upskilling from A2 CofC: If you already hold an A2 Certificate of Competence and are looking to move beyond the limitations of the open category, the GVC is the logical next step.
• Ambitious Operators: Ideal for operators wanting to perform more advanced drone operations that require specific permissions from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
• Professional Advancement: Perfect for commercial drone pilots aiming to access higher-value projects, such as industrial inspections, BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) flights, and other complex missions.

Benefits of the GVC Programme

1. Specific Category Operations: Learn to operate within the specific category, enabling you to undertake tasks that exceed the parameters of the open category.
2. OSC Preparation: Gain the knowledge and skills needed to apply for an Operational Safety Case, granting permissions for reduced TOAL (Take-Off and Landing areas), higher altitudes, or more complex environments.
3. Advanced Operational Capabilities: Master safety, risk assessments, flight planning, and compliance with regulations tailored to specific and complex operations.
4. Enhanced Professional Opportunities: Unlock access to industries such as infrastructure inspection, construction, surveying, and emergency services requiring specific category permissions.

Course Highlights

• Regulatory Expertise: Detailed instruction on the requirements for specific category operations, ensuring full compliance with CAA guidelines.
• Safety and Risk Management: Comprehensive training on safety protocols and risk mitigation strategies for advanced operations.
• Practical Flight Skills: Emphasis on real-world scenarios, operational planning, and emergency procedures tailored to more complex missions.
• Pathway to OSC: Guidance on preparing the documentation and planning necessary to secure an Operational Safety Case for bespoke permissions.
• Future-Proof Your Skills: Stay ahead in the industry by gaining qualifications that prepare you for the next stage of drone technology evolution.

The GVC training Programme is not just a certification; it’s a pathway to unlocking advanced operational capabilities and standing out in a competitive industry. Whether you’re looking to expand your drone business or take on more challenging projects, the GVC ensures you’re equipped to operate at the highest levels of safety, compliance, and professionalism.

Modules Covered in the GVC Course

Our training covers the essential competencies required for safe and compliant drone operations, including:

1. Airspace Operating Principles
   Understand the fundamentals of airspace management, classifications, and restrictions.
2. Air Law and Responsibilities
   Learn the legal requirements and operator obligations for safe and lawful drone operations.
3. Airmanship and Aviation Safety
   Explore best practices for situational awareness, risk management, and maintaining operational safety.
4. Human Performance Limitations
   Study the impact of physiological and psychological factors on pilot performance and decision-making.
5. Meteorology
   Gain insights into weather patterns, forecasts, and their effects on drone flight.
6. Navigation and Charts
   Develop the skills to interpret aeronautical charts and plan accurate, efficient flight paths.
7. UAS General Knowledge and Flight Performance
   Understand the technical aspects of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and how they influence flight characteristics.
8. Operator Responsibilities
   Learn the roles and duties of a drone operator, including maintaining compliance and overseeing operational safety.
9. Operating Procedures
   Master the standard operating procedures, from pre-flight checks to emergency protocols.

Yes as part of this training you will be required depending on experiance to have some practical flight training, although there is no practical flight exam for the A2 C of C it is always good for the experiance of the operator to have the practical flight sessions with one of our experts.

If yuo do not have a drone speak to us and we will be able to supply you with a drone and also advise you on the best drone to purchase.

Yes there is a theory test at the end of the course which consists of 40 questions and requires a pass mark of 75%, by the end of the course you will have all the knowledge required to pass the final exam.

There is also a practical flight assessment which you are required to pass, you will have access to the practical flight exercises to enable you to practice the assessment.

you also have unlimited mock exams to enhance your confidence.

As part of the package, in the unlikely event you fail the theory exam (we all have an off day) you will have access to one free re-test.