GVC UK CAA Specific Category Regulations 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Under UK regulations, what must a GVC holder do before conducting flights under PDRA01?
- Submit a full Operational Authorisation application to the CAA
- Make a declaration to the CAA confirming compliance with PDRA01 conditions (Correct answer)
- Obtain written permission from local police
- Register with EASA
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 2: What is the maximum height above ground level for UAS operations under PDRA01 in the UK?
- 120 metres (400 ft) (Correct answer)
- 150 metres (500 ft)
- 90 metres (300 ft)
- No height limit applies
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 3: Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the UAS operator under UK CAA regulations?
- Maintaining an operations manual
- Ensuring the remote pilot holds appropriate competency
- Providing air traffic control services in the operating area (Correct answer)
- Conducting and documenting risk assessments
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 4: Under UK drone regulations, what happens if a UAS operator fails to renew their Operator ID registration?
- They may continue to fly for a 30-day grace period
- All their operations become illegal until re-registered (Correct answer)
- They automatically revert to Open category permissions
- 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 5: What is the role of an 'Operations Manual' (Ops Manual) for a Specific category UAS operator in the UK?
- It is only required for flights over 150 metres
- It documents the operator's procedures, risk mitigations, and compliance measures (Correct answer)
- 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 6: Which UK airspace classification generally requires prior permission or coordination before conducting UAS flights?
- Class G airspace only
- Controlled airspace (Classes A through E) (Correct answer)
- Class F airspace only
- No airspace requires prior permission for sub-25 kg drones
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.
GVC UK CAA Specific Category Regulations 2
Under UK regulations, what must a GVC holder do before conducting flights under PDRA01?