GVC General VLOS Certificate Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is the primary purpose of Crew Resource Management (CRM) in UAS operations?

To optimise the use of all available resources to enhance safety and efficiency (Correct answer)
To manage battery and fuel consumption during flight
To ensure aircraft maintenance is completed correctly
To plan flight routes using GPS navigation systems

Correct answer: To optimise the use of all available resources to enhance safety and efficiency

CRM focuses on optimising the use of all available resources — people, equipment, and information — to enhance safety and operational effectiveness.

Question 2: A commercial client asks a drone operator to hand over all raw footage from a photographic survey, including footage of neighbouring properties. What data protection consideration applies?

Footage of property is never personal data so no data protection consideration arises
The operator should assess whether sharing footage of third-party properties is justified under UK GDPR and may need to redact or withhold footage of identifiable individuals not covered by the client's lawful basis (Correct answer)
The client automatically becomes the data controller for all footage at the point of handover
Raw footage belongs entirely to the client once the job is complete — no data protection consideration applies

Correct answer: The operator should assess whether sharing footage of third-party properties is justified under UK GDPR and may need to redact or withhold footage of identifiable individuals not covered by the client's lawful basis

When footage contains personal data (identifiable people or potentially even specific, identifiable vehicle registrations on private land), sharing it requires a lawful basis. The operator must consider whether the client's intended use is covered by their own lawful basis. A data processing agreement between operator and client is best practice.

Question 3: What is the 'lapse rate' and why does it matter for UAS operations?

The rate at which air temperature decreases with altitude, affecting density altitude and UAS performance (Correct answer)
The rate at which a NOTAM expires
The rate at which a drone loses battery power
The rate at which daylight decreases in winter

Correct answer: The rate at which air temperature decreases with altitude, affecting density altitude and UAS performance

The lapse rate is the rate at which atmospheric temperature decreases with increasing altitude, typically around 2°C per 1,000 ft in the International Standard Atmosphere. This matters for UAS because temperature affects air density, which in turn affects motor efficiency, propeller thrust, and battery performance at different flight altitudes.

Question 4: What is the Beaufort Scale and how is it useful for UAS pilots?

A scale measuring air pressure changes
A scale used only by maritime operations
A scale that classifies wind speed based on observable effects on the environment, useful for estimating conditions on site (Correct answer)
A scale measuring UV radiation intensity

Correct answer: A scale that classifies wind speed based on observable effects on the environment, useful for estimating conditions on site

The Beaufort Scale classifies wind speed from Force 0 (calm) to Force 12 (hurricane) based on observable effects such as movement of leaves, flags, trees, and surface water. It is useful for UAS pilots conducting site assessments when anemometer data is unavailable, allowing them to estimate wind conditions from visual cues.

Question 5: How does air temperature affect UAS battery performance?

Temperature has no effect on modern lithium polymer batteries
Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity and can cause voltage drops, reducing flight time (Correct answer)
Only temperatures above 40°C affect batteries
Higher temperatures always improve battery life

Correct answer: Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity and can cause voltage drops, reducing flight time

Cold temperatures significantly reduce the chemical reaction rate in lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries, lowering their available capacity and increasing internal resistance. This can cause unexpected voltage drops under load, reduce flight time, and in extreme cold, cause the battery to cut out entirely. Pilots must factor in reduced flight times during cold weather operations.

Question 6: What is the primary purpose of the UK CAA's 'Specific' category for UAS operations?

To regulate military drone operations
To authorise flights above FL600
To allow recreational flights under 250 g without restrictions
To cover operations that pose a greater risk than the Open category and require a risk assessment (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To cover operations that pose a greater risk than the Open category and require a risk assessment

The Specific category is designed for UAS operations that carry a higher risk than the Open category permits. It requires the operator to conduct a risk assessment and obtain appropriate authorisation from the CAA before flying.

Question 7: Under UK regulations, what is the minimum age requirement to register as a drone operator with the CAA?

16 years old
There is no minimum age for operators
14 years old
18 years old (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 18 years old

To register as a drone operator with the UK CAA, a person must be at least 18 years old. However, remote pilots (the person physically flying) can be younger, provided they are supervised by a registered operator who takes responsibility.

Question 8: What information should a remote pilot record and report after a UAS incident?

Flight telemetry, location, time, weather, persons involved, damage assessment, witness details, and actions taken (Correct answer)
Only a photograph of any damage
Only the model of the drone and the date
No information is required if no injury occurred

Correct answer: Flight telemetry, location, time, weather, persons involved, damage assessment, witness details, and actions taken

After an incident, the pilot should record comprehensive details: time and location, flight telemetry/logs, weather conditions, description of the event, actions taken, details of any persons involved or injured, property damage assessment, witness contact information, and the UAS status. This information is required for the mandatory occurrence report to the CAA and for the operator's own records.

Question 9: How long is a GVC valid before it must be renewed?

1 year, requiring annual renewal
5 years, after which a revalidation assessment is required (Correct answer)
3 years, with a written exam required for renewal
Indefinitely, once issued

Correct answer: 5 years, after which a revalidation assessment is required

The GVC is valid for 5 years from the date of issue. Before expiry, holders must complete a revalidation assessment with an NQE to demonstrate continued competency. This ensures that GVC holders keep their knowledge and skills current.

Question 10: What is the purpose of establishing a 'flight geography' and 'contingency volume' in UAS flight planning?

To determine the number of observers required
To calculate the operator's insurance premium
To define the marketing area for the operator's services
To define the intended flight area and the additional airspace buffer for handling abnormal situations (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To define the intended flight area and the additional airspace buffer for handling abnormal situations

The flight geography defines where the UAS is intended to fly during normal operations. The contingency volume is the additional airspace surrounding the flight geography where the UAS may manoeuvre in abnormal situations (e.g., wind gusts, minor system issues) before triggering emergency procedures. Together they form the operational volume.

Question 11: When planning a commercial drone flightpath, what is the significance of identifying 'emergency landing sites'?

Pre-planned emergency landing sites allow the pilot to quickly direct the drone to a safe location in the event of a technical failure or other emergency (Correct answer)
Emergency landing sites are legally required to be marked on all flight plans submitted to the CAA
Identifying them satisfies insurance requirements but has no operational value
Emergency landing sites only matter for BVLOS operations

Correct answer: Pre-planned emergency landing sites allow the pilot to quickly direct the drone to a safe location in the event of a technical failure or other emergency

Pre-identifying safe emergency landing sites along the planned route is a key element of professional flightpath planning. In the event of a technical failure, loss of communication, or unexpected hazard, the pilot can execute a pre-planned emergency landing rather than making an uncontrolled forced landing in an unsafe area.

Question 12: Under PDRA01, what is required regarding flight over uninvolved persons?

Flight over uninvolved persons is freely permitted
Uninvolved persons must sign a waiver before the flight
Flight over uninvolved persons is only permitted above 100 metres
The operator must minimise time over uninvolved persons and never fly over assemblies of people (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The operator must minimise time over uninvolved persons and never fly over assemblies of people

PDRA01 requires operators to minimise the time spent overflying uninvolved persons and explicitly prohibits flight over assemblies of people. This is a key risk mitigation — reducing exposure of uninvolved persons to the potential consequences of a UAS malfunction.

Question 13: What is a 'Controlled Impact' and when might it be the appropriate emergency response?

A standard landing procedure used in all flights
A technique for landing in crosswinds
A landing on a designated helipad
Deliberately flying the UAS into a non-populated area to prevent a worse outcome, such as crashing into a crowd (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Deliberately flying the UAS into a non-populated area to prevent a worse outcome, such as crashing into a crowd

A controlled impact is a last-resort emergency procedure where the pilot deliberately directs the UAS to crash in the least harmful location available (such as an open field or body of water) to prevent a worse outcome, such as an uncontrolled descent into a gathering of people. It sacrifices the UAS to protect human safety.

Question 14: Under UK regulations, what must a GVC holder do before conducting flights under PDRA01?

Obtain written permission from local police
Register with EASA
Submit a full Operational Authorisation application to the CAA
Make a declaration to the CAA confirming compliance with PDRA01 conditions (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Make a declaration to the CAA confirming compliance with PDRA01 conditions

GVC holders operating under PDRA01 must make a declaration to the CAA confirming they will comply with all the conditions of the PDRA. This is a simplified process compared to applying for a full Operational Authorisation.

Question 15: Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the UAS operator under UK CAA regulations?

Conducting and documenting risk assessments
Maintaining an operations manual
Providing air traffic control services in the operating area (Correct answer)
Ensuring the remote pilot holds appropriate competency

Correct answer: Providing air traffic control services in the operating area

Providing air traffic control services is the responsibility of ANSPs (Air Navigation Service Providers), not UAS operators. Operators are responsible for maintaining operations manuals, ensuring pilot competency, and conducting risk assessments.

Question 16: How should a remote pilot respond if an uninvolved person enters the operational area during flight?

Ignore them if they appear to be passing through quickly
Increase altitude to 120 metres to avoid them
Land immediately regardless of the UAS position
Assess the risk, manoeuvre the UAS away from the person, pause or abort the operation if necessary, and have a crew member warn them (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Assess the risk, manoeuvre the UAS away from the person, pause or abort the operation if necessary, and have a crew member warn them

The pilot should dynamically assess the risk, manoeuvre the UAS away from the uninvolved person to maintain safe separation, and if necessary pause or abort the operation. A crew member or observer should be tasked with approaching the person to warn them of the drone operation. The response should be proportionate to the risk level.

Question 17: Why are 'thermals' a concern for UAS operations, particularly over urban areas?

Thermals are only relevant for manned glider operations
Thermals improve battery performance
Thermals only occur over oceans
Thermals are rising columns of warm air that can cause sudden altitude gains and turbulence, affecting UAS stability (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Thermals are rising columns of warm air that can cause sudden altitude gains and turbulence, affecting UAS stability

Thermals are rising columns of warm air caused by uneven surface heating. In urban areas, dark surfaces (roads, rooftops) can generate strong thermals. For small UAS, thermals can cause sudden uncommanded altitude changes, unexpected turbulence, and difficulty maintaining precise position — particularly hazardous near buildings and during inspection work.

Question 18: When planning a flight route for a commercial UAS operation, which of the following should be given the HIGHEST priority?

Minimising flight time over uninvolved persons and congested areas (Correct answer)
Achieving the most dramatic camera angles
Following the most direct straight-line path
Maximising the ground area covered per battery

Correct answer: Minimising flight time over uninvolved persons and congested areas

Safety is the overriding priority in flight planning. Routes should be planned to minimise overflying uninvolved persons, congested areas, and sensitive sites. This reduces the ground risk and is a key element of the operator's duty of care and SORA compliance.

Question 19: How does high density altitude affect UAS performance?

It improves motor efficiency and increases flight time
It only affects fixed-wing UAS
It has no effect on multirotor aircraft
It reduces air density, decreasing propeller thrust and degrading UAS performance (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It reduces air density, decreasing propeller thrust and degrading UAS performance

High density altitude occurs when the air is less dense than standard (due to high temperature, low pressure, or high humidity). Less dense air means the propellers generate less thrust for the same rotational speed, requiring motors to work harder. This reduces climb rate, maximum altitude, payload capacity, and battery endurance.

Question 20: What is the role of an 'Operations Manual' (Ops Manual) for a Specific category UAS operator in the UK?

It documents the operator's procedures, risk mitigations, and compliance measures (Correct answer)
It is only required for flights over 150 metres
It replaces the need for a risk assessment
It is a CAA marketing requirement with no legal standing

Correct answer: It documents the operator's procedures, risk mitigations, and compliance measures

The Operations Manual is a key compliance document for Specific category operators. It details operational procedures, risk mitigations, maintenance schedules, emergency procedures, and how the operator ensures compliance with regulations and authorisation conditions.

Question 21: What is the primary weather hazard that limits most small UAS operations?

Fog
High temperatures
Low humidity
High wind speeds exceeding the UAS performance envelope (Correct answer)

Correct answer: High wind speeds exceeding the UAS performance envelope

High wind speeds are the most common weather-related limitation for small UAS operations. If wind speed exceeds the drone's maximum rated airspeed, it cannot maintain position or return to the pilot. Gusts can cause loss of control, and sustained winds increase battery consumption and reduce flight time.

Question 22: What is the purpose of a site survey before conducting a commercial UAS operation?

To identify hazards, assess the operating environment, and determine suitable take-off and landing areas (Correct answer)
To check the mobile phone signal strength for live streaming
To test the drone's maximum speed in the area
To negotiate land access fees with the property owner

Correct answer: To identify hazards, assess the operating environment, and determine suitable take-off and landing areas

A site survey allows the remote pilot to identify physical hazards (power lines, trees, buildings), assess ground conditions, determine suitable launch and recovery points, evaluate electromagnetic interference risks, and identify uninvolved persons who may be present. This feeds directly into the operational risk assessment.

Question 23: What is an 'operational volume' in the context of a SORA risk assessment?

The physical volume of the drone including its rotors
The maximum payload weight the drone can carry safely
The volume of airspace used during normal operations, defined by lateral and vertical boundaries including buffers (Correct answer)
The area of ground below the planned flight path

Correct answer: The volume of airspace used during normal operations, defined by lateral and vertical boundaries including buffers

The operational volume is the three-dimensional airspace block within which the drone conducts its normal mission, including buffers for navigation uncertainty and contingency manoeuvres. It forms the basis for assessing both ground and air risk in the SORA process.

Question 24: What does VLOS mean and what is its practical implication for UAS flight planning?

Visual Line of Sight — the remote pilot must maintain unaided visual contact with the UAS at all times (Correct answer)
Vertical Launch and Observe System — the drone must take off vertically
Very Low Operating Speed — the drone must fly below 20 mph
Variable Level of Service — the drone adjusts autonomy based on signal strength

Correct answer: Visual Line of Sight — the remote pilot must maintain unaided visual contact with the UAS at all times

VLOS stands for Visual Line of Sight. It requires the remote pilot to maintain direct, unaided visual contact with the UAS at all times during flight. This means the pilot must be able to see the drone clearly enough to determine its orientation, direction of flight, and proximity to other aircraft or obstacles.

Question 25: How does population density affect the Ground Risk Class in a SORA assessment?

Population density has no effect — only drone size matters for GRC
GRC only applies in rural areas where ATC services are unavailable
Higher population density increases the GRC because more people could be harmed if the drone crashes (Correct answer)
Higher population density decreases GRC because urban areas have better emergency services

Correct answer: Higher population density increases the GRC because more people could be harmed if the drone crashes

SORA considers population density as a primary factor in GRC. Flying over densely populated urban areas creates higher ground risk than flying over uninhabited rural land, because the probability of a person being struck in the event of a crash is significantly greater.

Question 26: What weather information does a TAF provide, and how does it differ from a METAR?

There is no difference; they are the same report
A TAF covers a 30-day period; a METAR covers 24 hours
A TAF is a historical weather log; a METAR is a forecast
A TAF is an aerodrome weather forecast valid for a future period; a METAR is an observation of current conditions (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A TAF is an aerodrome weather forecast valid for a future period; a METAR is an observation of current conditions

A TAF (Terminal Aerodrome Forecast) is a forecast of expected weather conditions at an aerodrome, typically valid for 9 to 30 hours. A METAR is an observation of actual current conditions. Both are essential for UAS flight planning: the TAF for planning ahead, and the METAR for confirming conditions on the day.

Question 27: What is U-space in the context of UK drone airspace management?

A type of transponder required for all commercial drones
A designated physical area exclusively for drone deliveries
A framework of digital services designed to support safe drone integration into airspace, including registration, geofencing, and traffic management (Correct answer)
A CAA software tool for filing NOTAMs

Correct answer: A framework of digital services designed to support safe drone integration into airspace, including registration, geofencing, and traffic management

U-space is a set of services and procedures designed to allow safe and efficient access to airspace for large numbers of drones. It includes services such as drone registration, flight authorisation, weather information, geofencing enforcement, and drone traffic management — enabling coexistence of manned and unmanned traffic.

Question 28: What is 'wind shear' and why is it hazardous to UAS operations?

A gradual change in wind speed over 24 hours
A type of wind that only occurs at night
The effect of wind on camera stabilisation only
A sudden change in wind speed or direction over a short distance, which can cause loss of control (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A sudden change in wind speed or direction over a short distance, which can cause loss of control

Wind shear is a sudden change in wind speed, direction, or both over a short distance (either vertically or horizontally). For UAS, wind shear can cause sudden uncommanded changes in altitude or position, potentially leading to loss of control, collision with obstacles, or departure from the operational volume. It commonly occurs near buildings, terrain features, and during thunderstorm activity.

Question 29: Under UK drone regulations, what happens if a UAS operator fails to renew their Operator ID registration?

All their operations become illegal until re-registered (Correct answer)
They automatically revert to Open category permissions
They may continue to fly for a 30-day grace period
Their Flyer ID is also revoked

Correct answer: All their operations become illegal until re-registered

If an Operator ID registration lapses, the operator is no longer legally permitted to conduct any UAS operations. They must re-register before resuming flying. There is no grace period or automatic reversion to another category.

Question 30: Which document must a UAS operator hold before conducting operations in the Specific category in the UK?

A Flyer ID only
A certificate from a local authority
A Private Pilot Licence (PPL)
An Operator ID and a valid Operational Authorisation or PDRA declaration (Correct answer)

Correct answer: An Operator ID and a valid Operational Authorisation or PDRA declaration

Specific category operations in the UK require the operator to hold an Operator ID and either a valid Operational Authorisation granted by the CAA or to have declared operations under a relevant PDRA. A Flyer ID alone is insufficient for Specific category work.

Question 31: What information would you expect to find in a NOTAM that is relevant to UAS flight planning?

Weather forecasts for the next 7 days
The names of other drone operators in the area
Temporary airspace restrictions, military exercises, or aerial events that affect the planned route (Correct answer)
Insurance requirements for the specific flight

Correct answer: Temporary airspace restrictions, military exercises, or aerial events that affect the planned route

NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) provide time-critical aeronautical information including temporary airspace restrictions, military exercises, aerial work, temporary danger areas, and other hazards. UAS pilots must check NOTAMs as part of pre-flight planning to ensure they do not fly into restricted areas.

Question 32: What is an 'Emergency Response Plan' (ERP) and when must it be prepared?

A financial plan for replacing damaged equipment
A documented plan detailing actions to take in emergency scenarios — required before every Specific category operation (Correct answer)
A plan for responding to equipment failure — only required for flights over 100 metres
A plan submitted to the emergency services after an incident

Correct answer: A documented plan detailing actions to take in emergency scenarios — required before every Specific category operation

An Emergency Response Plan must be prepared before conducting Specific category UAS operations. It documents the procedures to follow in various emergency scenarios such as flyaway, loss of control link, loss of GNSS, battery failure, or injury to persons. It should include emergency contact numbers, hospital locations, and notification procedures.

Question 33: When planning a UAS flight, what is the significance of 'magnetic declination'?

It is the angular difference between true north and magnetic north, affecting compass-based navigation (Correct answer)
It determines the battery discharge rate
It measures the signal strength between the controller and the drone
It only affects flights above 500 metres

Correct answer: It is the angular difference between true north and magnetic north, affecting compass-based navigation

Magnetic declination (or variation) is the angle between true north and magnetic north at a given location. It affects any compass-based navigation and must be accounted for when correlating chart bearings (referenced to true north) with compass readings on the UAS or controller.

Question 34: Which of the following is a requirement for obtaining a UK CAA Flyer ID?

Having at least 50 hours of logged flight time
Completing a recognised assessment centre course
Passing the CAA online theory test (Correct answer)
Holding a valid pilot's licence

Correct answer: Passing the CAA online theory test

The Flyer ID is obtained by passing the free online theory test on the CAA's registration service. It is a basic competency requirement for Open category flying, not to be confused with the more advanced GVC or other Specific category qualifications.

Question 35: What is the maximum height above ground level for UAS operations under PDRA01 in the UK?

150 metres (500 ft)
No height limit applies
90 metres (300 ft)
120 metres (400 ft) (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 120 metres (400 ft)

PDRA01 limits UAS operations to a maximum height of 120 metres (400 ft) above ground level. This is consistent with the standard height limit applied across most UAS operational frameworks in the UK.

Question 36: Which UK airspace classification generally requires prior permission or coordination before conducting UAS flights?

Controlled airspace (Classes A through E) (Correct answer)
No airspace requires prior permission for sub-25 kg drones
Class G airspace only
Class F airspace only

Correct answer: Controlled airspace (Classes A through E)

Controlled airspace (Classes A through E) requires prior permission or coordination with the relevant air traffic control unit before UAS flights may be conducted. Class G is uncontrolled airspace where UAS may fly subject to other regulatory conditions.

Question 37: Under UK CAA regulations, what is the maximum take-off mass (MTOM) for a UAS operating in the Specific category without requiring an Operational Authorisation?

There is no exemption; all Specific category operations require an Operational Authorisation (Correct answer)
20 kg
150 kg
25 kg

Correct answer: There is no exemption; all Specific category operations require an Operational Authorisation

All operations in the Specific category require either an Operational Authorisation (OA) from the CAA or must operate under a published PDRA. There is no mass-based exemption that removes this requirement within the Specific category.

Question 38: What does the GVC qualification enable a remote pilot to do under UK drone regulations?

Fly beyond visual line of sight without restrictions
Fly in the Specific category under PDRA01 and applicable standard scenarios (Correct answer)
Fly any drone up to 25 kg in any airspace
Operate commercially in the Open category only

Correct answer: Fly in the Specific category under PDRA01 and applicable standard scenarios

The GVC (General VLOS Certificate) is a competency certificate that enables remote pilots to fly under PDRA01 (and applicable standard scenarios) within the Specific category. It does not grant unrestricted airspace access or BVLOS privileges.

Question 39: What is the recommended action when a LiPo battery's capacity has dropped to 80% of its original rated capacity?

Retire the battery from flight operations — it has degraded beyond safe use limits (Correct answer)
Continue using it but only for shorter flights
Store at room temperature to restore original capacity
Recharge to 100% after every use to recover capacity

Correct answer: Retire the battery from flight operations — it has degraded beyond safe use limits

A LiPo battery that has lost 20% or more of its rated capacity should be retired from active flight use. Degraded batteries are more susceptible to voltage sag under load, which can cause a sudden power cut mid-flight. Manufacturers typically specify 80% remaining capacity as the service limit.

Question 40: Why is it important to check for electromagnetic interference (EMI) sources during a site survey?

EMI only affects drones painted with metallic paint
EMI can charge the drone's battery faster
EMI improves the drone's camera quality
EMI sources such as power lines, transmitters, and substations can interfere with the UAS control link and GNSS signals (Correct answer)

Correct answer: EMI sources such as power lines, transmitters, and substations can interfere with the UAS control link and GNSS signals

Electromagnetic interference from sources such as high-voltage power lines, radio transmitters, radar installations, and electrical substations can disrupt the UAS control link (causing loss of command) and degrade GNSS accuracy (causing navigation errors). Identifying EMI sources during the site survey allows the pilot to plan mitigations or adjust the operating area.

GVC General VLOS Certificate Exam

The GVC (General VLOS Certificate) Exam is administered by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for commercial drone operators. It covers specific category regulations, operational risk assessment (SORA), flight planning, and meteorology for UAS operations.

Questions

40 min

Time Limit

75%

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These practice questions were written with AI tools. They are not real exam questions. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy

Sources & references

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regulatorylibrary.caa.co.uk — Renewal, exam format, passing score, retake policy, score validity, test delivery, eligibility · verified Oct 2026