Recently, the FAA gave notice that the federal regulation regarding passing of the Aeronautical Knowledge and Safety Test for drone operators is now enforced. While review website letsflywisely.com features DJI Mavic Mini (https://letsflywisely.com/dji-mavic-mini-review/ ) as safe, budget-friendly and compact drones, the site also promotes safe and responsible flying of unmanned aerial vehicles, by disseminating pertinent information.
The Federal Aviation Authority, known to many as the FAA, has stated that in addition to the required registration requirements, recreational flyers of unmanned aerial vehicles will have to take and pass the Aeronautical Knowledge and Safety Test, which can be accessed online. Thereafter all recreational drone operators must at any time while operating a UAV, will be able to present a Remote Pilot Certificate as proof that they passed the said test.
What is the Aeronautical Knowledge and Safety Test?
As many drones today can be flown by operators without minimal training, as well knowledge of aviation rules and safety practices, the FAA in consultation with stakeholders, developed the Aeronautical Knowledge and Safety Test. The test intends to demonstrate a drone operator’s knowledge of the rules that must be observed to safely operate unmanned aircrafts.
While the test is the 7th of the 8 requirementsthat must be satisfied in connection with a flyer’s registration as a Recreational Drone Operator, immediate implementation was previously not yet possible. Now that the FAA has already established, developed and made the test electronically available, notice has been given that under the Small UAS Rules, a drone operator must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate by passing the Aeronautical Knowledge and Safety Test.
The Remote Pilot Certificate is valid for two years, to which renewal of the certification will require the certificate holder to pass a Recurrent Knowledge Test.
What are the Topics Included in the Aeronautical Knowledge and Safety Test?
1. Applicable regulations imposed on small unmanned aircraft system, pertaining to flight operation, rating privileges and limitations.
2. Airspace classification, flight restrictions and operating requirements governing operation of small unmanned aircraft.
3. Aviation weather sources, as well as the effects of weather on the performance of small unmanned aircraft.
4. Loading and performance of small unmanned aircraft.
5. Determining the performance of small unmanned aircraft
6. Emergency procedures
7. Radio communication procedures
8. Aeronautical judgment and decision-making
9. Preflight inspection and maintenance procedures
10. Airport operations
11. Crew resource management
12. Physiological effects of drugs and alcohol