A2 CofC - Drone Certificate of Competency UAS General Knowledge Questions and Answers

Question 1

A remote pilot checks the METAR for a nearby airfield which reads `METAR EGLL 200720Z 27015G25KT 9999 SCT025 10/07 Q1012`. What is the primary weather-related hazard they should consider for their UAS operation?

Accepted Answer

Significant wind gusts up to 25 knots.

Answer

The METAR code `27015G25KT` indicates the wind is from 270 degrees at a steady 15 knots, but with gusts (G) up to 25 knots. These strong and unpredictable gusts pose a significant stability and control challenge for most UAS, making it the primary hazard.

Question 2

When a multirotor UAS hovers within approximately one rotor diameter of the ground, it often requires less power to maintain its altitude. What is this aerodynamic phenomenon called?

Accepted Answer

In-Ground Effect (IGE)

Answer

In-Ground Effect (IGE) occurs when a rotorcraft operates close to a surface. The downwash from the rotors is restricted by the ground, creating a cushion of higher-pressure air that increases lift efficiency and reduces the power required to hover.

Question 3

The 'IMSAFE' checklist is a self-assessment tool recommended by the CAA for pilots to determine their fitness to fly. What does the 'F' in this acronym represent?

Accepted Answer

Fatigue

Answer

The IMSAFE checklist stands for: Illness, Medication, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue, and Emotion/Eating. The 'F' represents Fatigue, prompting pilots to assess if they are sufficiently rested to operate their UAS safely and maintain concentration.

Question 4

A remote pilot with an A2 CofC is operating a 1.5kg C2-marked drone. They are flying in a park and have NOT activated the required low-speed mode. According to UK CAA regulations, what is the absolute minimum horizontal distance they must maintain from any uninvolved people?

Accepted Answer

30 metres

Answer

Under the A2 subcategory rules, a C2-marked drone can be flown as close as 5 metres horizontally to uninvolved people, but only if the drone's designated low-speed mode is active. If this mode is not active, the standard A2 rule applies, which requires a minimum horizontal distance of 30 metres from uninvolved people.

Question 5

In the context of operational safety planning for a UAS flight, which of the following best defines the 'Contingency Volume'?

Accepted Answer

A defined volume of airspace surrounding the planned flight area where contingency procedures are initiated.

Answer

In UAS operational planning, the 'Flight Geography' is the intended area of operation. The 'Contingency Volume' is an additional buffer of airspace around the flight geography. If the UAS strays into this volume, it triggers pre-planned contingency procedures to ensure it does not fly beyond it into an area where it could cause a hazard.

A2 CofC Drone Practice Test

A2 CofC Drone Practice Test

A2 CofC - Drone Certificate of Competency UAS General Knowledge Questions and Answers