GVC General VLOS Certificate Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: How does high density altitude affect UAS performance?

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

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 2: 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 only affects flights above 500 metres
It determines the battery discharge rate
It measures the signal strength between the controller and the drone

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

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

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 4: What is the correct process for a commercial drone operator to obtain airspace permission to fly within a controlled aerodrome's ATZ?

No permission is needed if the flight is below 50 m AGL within an ATZ
Submit a NOTAM through NATS at least 7 days in advance
Contact the aerodrome's air traffic control (ATC) or AFIS unit directly and obtain verbal or written permission before flight (Correct answer)
Register the flight on the CAA drone portal — this automatically grants ATZ access

Correct answer: Contact the aerodrome's air traffic control (ATC) or AFIS unit directly and obtain verbal or written permission before flight

To enter an Aerodrome Traffic Zone, the drone operator must contact the ATC or AFIS unit responsible for that aerodrome and receive explicit permission. This permission is usually verbal, and the operator should record details in their flight log. Some aerodromes may require advance notice.

Question 5: What is the Beaufort Scale and how is it useful for UAS pilots?

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

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 6: Which document sets out the standard scenario conditions under which a GVC holder may operate in the specific category?

The Air Navigation Order alone
The operator's own self-declared safety case
A Pre-Defined Risk Assessment (PDRA) or CAA-published standard scenario (Correct answer)
A letter of approval from the local authority

Correct answer: A Pre-Defined Risk Assessment (PDRA) or CAA-published standard scenario

Pre-Defined Risk Assessments (PDRAs) are CAA-published risk assessments for common specific-category operations. GVC holders can use applicable PDRAs to operate without requiring a bespoke Operational Authorisation, provided all conditions of the PDRA are met.

Question 7: What is the primary weather hazard that limits most small UAS operations?

High temperatures
Fog
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 8: How does air temperature affect UAS battery performance?

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

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 9: 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 a CAA marketing requirement with no legal standing
It replaces the need for a risk assessment
It is only required for flights over 150 metres

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

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

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

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

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 12: What is a 'Return to Home' (RTH) function and what should the pilot verify before each flight?

RTH only works when the UAS has more than 80% battery
RTH is a manual procedure that requires constant pilot input
RTH sends a video feed to the pilot's home address
RTH automatically flies the UAS back to a preset point — the pilot must verify the home point is correctly set and the return altitude is safe (Correct answer)

Correct answer: RTH automatically flies the UAS back to a preset point — the pilot must verify the home point is correctly set and the return altitude is safe

Return to Home (RTH) is an automated function that commands the UAS to fly back to a preset GPS coordinate (usually the take-off point). Before each flight, the pilot must verify the home point has been acquired correctly, and that the return altitude is set high enough to clear all obstacles along the return path. An incorrectly set home point or altitude can result in a collision or the drone returning to the wrong location.

Question 13: At what wind speed (as a general guideline) should most small commercial UAS operations be suspended?

Any wind above 5 knots
Wind speed limits only apply in controlled airspace
Only when winds exceed 50 knots
When sustained winds exceed approximately two-thirds of the UAS maximum airspeed (Correct answer)

Correct answer: When sustained winds exceed approximately two-thirds of the UAS maximum airspeed

A widely accepted guideline is that operations should be suspended when sustained wind speeds exceed approximately two-thirds of the UAS maximum airspeed. This ensures the drone retains sufficient control authority and can return to the pilot against the wind. Gusts must also be considered, as they can momentarily exceed the drone's capability.

Question 14: Which document must a UAS operator hold before conducting operations in the Specific category in the UK?

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

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 15: What is the process for transitioning from a legacy PfCO (Permission for Commercial Operations) to the current UK UAS regulatory framework?

PfCOs are still the current valid authorisation
PfCO holders are permanently exempt from new regulations
PfCO holders must retake all exams from scratch
PfCO holders were given a transition period to obtain a GVC and declare under a PDRA or apply for an Operational Authorisation (Correct answer)

Correct answer: PfCO holders were given a transition period to obtain a GVC and declare under a PDRA or apply for an Operational Authorisation

When the UK transitioned to the new UAS regulatory framework (based on the three-category system: Open, Specific, Certified), holders of the legacy PfCO were given a transition period. During this period, they could convert their qualification to a GVC through a streamlined process and then declare operations under PDRA01 or apply for an Operational Authorisation as needed.

Question 16: What is the 'Flight Restriction Zone' (FRZ) around a UK aerodrome?

An area where all drone flights are permanently banned
A defined zone around an aerodrome where drone flights require permission from the air traffic control unit (Correct answer)
A 1 km radius circle where only military drones may operate
A zone that only applies to drones above 50 kg

Correct answer: A defined zone around an aerodrome where drone flights require permission from the air traffic control unit

A Flight Restriction Zone is a defined area of airspace around a UK aerodrome (typically extending to a radius of approximately 2.5 nautical miles) where UAS flights are restricted. Drone pilots must obtain permission from the relevant air traffic control unit before flying within an FRZ.

Question 17: What does 'Class D' airspace mean for a commercial drone operator planning a flight?

Controlled airspace where ATC clearance is required; drone operators must contact the relevant ATC unit and receive permission before entry (Correct answer)
Airspace reserved exclusively for military drones
Airspace where drones are permanently prohibited
Airspace with no special requirements for drones below 400 ft

Correct answer: Controlled airspace where ATC clearance is required; drone operators must contact the relevant ATC unit and receive permission before entry

Class D is controlled airspace, commonly surrounding busy regional airports and approach paths. All aircraft, including drones, require ATC clearance to enter. Commercial drone operators must establish two-way radio communication or an approved equivalent and obtain clearance before operating in Class D.

Question 18: Where can a commercial drone operator obtain official NOTAMs for pre-flight airspace planning?

Local council planning departments issue NOTAMs for drone operations
Only via direct telephone call to NATS
The NATS NOTAMam service, the CAA AIS portal, or CAA-approved drone apps that aggregate NOTAM data (Correct answer)
NOTAMs are not publicly accessible — only airlines have access

Correct answer: The NATS NOTAMam service, the CAA AIS portal, or CAA-approved drone apps that aggregate NOTAM data

NOTAMs are publicly accessible through NATS (National Air Traffic Services) AIS (Aeronautical Information Service) and the CAA's information portals. Multiple approved drone apps such as Altitude Angel and NATS Drone Assist aggregate this data in a more user-friendly format for drone pilots.

Question 19: 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?

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

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 20: How does fatigue most significantly affect a remote pilot's operational performance?

It increases physical strength required for equipment handling
It improves focus on individual tasks by reducing distraction
It impairs judgement, reaction time, and decision-making ability (Correct answer)
It has minimal effect on performance if the pilot is sufficiently experienced

Correct answer: It impairs judgement, reaction time, and decision-making ability

Fatigue significantly impairs cognitive function including judgement, decision-making, and reaction time, regardless of the pilot's experience level.

Question 21: 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)
Their Flyer ID is also revoked
They automatically revert to Open category permissions
They may continue to fly for a 30-day grace period

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

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

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 23: What is the SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) methodology used for?

To determine drone pilot medical fitness standards
To assess and quantify the risk of a specific drone operation, forming the basis for an Operational Authorisation application (Correct answer)
To register drones over 25 kg with the CAA
To calculate insurance premium levels for commercial operators

Correct answer: To assess and quantify the risk of a specific drone operation, forming the basis for an Operational Authorisation application

SORA is the structured risk assessment methodology used in the specific category when no applicable PDRA exists. It assesses ground risk (people below the flight path) and air risk (proximity to manned aircraft) to determine the required level of robustness for the operation and the conditions of the Operational Authorisation.

Question 24: What is 'channelised attention' and why is it particularly hazardous in UAS operations?

Focusing so intently on one task that other critical factors in the environment are neglected (Correct answer)
Focusing exclusively on radio communications to the detriment of other tasks
The process of actively monitoring multiple flight parameters simultaneously
A navigation technique that uses designated radio frequency channels

Correct answer: Focusing so intently on one task that other critical factors in the environment are neglected

Channelised attention (tunnel vision) means concentrating so intensely on a single element that the pilot loses awareness of other critical factors, which is especially dangerous in a complex drone operating environment.

Question 25: What is the maximum height above ground level for UAS operations under PDRA01 in the UK?

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

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

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

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

Passing the CAA online theory test (Correct answer)
Completing a recognised assessment centre course
Having at least 50 hours of logged flight time
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 28: Under UK regulations, what is the minimum age requirement to register as a drone operator with the CAA?

14 years old
16 years old
There is no minimum age for operators
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 29: The GVC (General VLOS Certificate) qualifies a drone pilot to operate in which category of UK drone operations?

Any category without further authorisation
The certified category for large commercial drones
The open category subcategory A2 only
The specific category, using a standard scenario or PDRA (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The specific category, using a standard scenario or PDRA

The GVC is a qualification for the specific category of drone operations, where operational risk exceeds open category limits. GVC holders can operate under applicable Pre-Defined Risk Assessments (PDRAs) or standard scenarios, such as flying near people or in controlled airspace under certain conditions.

Question 30: Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the UAS operator under UK CAA regulations?

Maintaining an operations manual
Conducting and documenting risk assessments
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 31: How does the remote pilot's position relative to the sun affect VLOS operations?

The sun improves visibility in all cases
It has no effect on modern drone operations
The sun only affects operations above 200 metres
Looking toward the sun can cause glare, making it difficult to maintain visual contact with the UAS (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Looking toward the sun can cause glare, making it difficult to maintain visual contact with the UAS

Solar glare is a significant factor in VLOS operations. If the remote pilot must look toward the sun to observe the UAS, the glare can make it extremely difficult or impossible to maintain adequate visual contact. Flight planning should consider the sun's position relative to the pilot's viewing direction at the planned time of operation.

Question 32: In SORA, what does 'strategic mitigation' for air risk involve?

Filing a police report before each flight
Painting the drone in high-visibility colours
Increasing the battery capacity of the UAS
Measures applied at the planning stage to reduce the probability of encountering manned aircraft (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Measures applied at the planning stage to reduce the probability of encountering manned aircraft

Strategic mitigations for air risk are measures implemented at the planning stage, such as restricting operations to airspace with low manned aircraft traffic, coordinating with air traffic services, or applying temporal restrictions. These reduce the probability of a mid-air encounter before the flight even begins.

Question 33: When planning a commercial UAS flight in the UK, which source should a remote pilot consult for active airspace restrictions and NOTAMs?

Google Maps satellite view
NATS Drone Assist app or the UK AIS website (Correct answer)
The Met Office website only
Local council planning department

Correct answer: NATS Drone Assist app or the UK AIS website

The NATS Drone Assist app and UK Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) website are the authoritative sources for checking active airspace restrictions, NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen), and temporary danger areas. These provide real-time and planned restriction data essential for safe flight planning.

Question 34: What is an 'Emergency Response Plan' (ERP) and when must it be prepared?

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

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

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

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

The names of other drone operators in the area
Weather forecasts for the next 7 days
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 37: What is the primary purpose of the UK CAA's 'Specific' category for UAS operations?

To allow recreational flights under 250 g without restrictions
To regulate military drone operations
To authorise flights above FL600
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 38: What does the GVC qualification enable a remote pilot to do under UK drone regulations?

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

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 does a METAR report provide to a UAS remote pilot?

A routine aeronautical weather observation at a specific aerodrome at a specific time (Correct answer)
Real-time wind data from the operating site
A 7-day weather forecast for the region
Satellite imagery of cloud formations

Correct answer: A routine aeronautical weather observation at a specific aerodrome at a specific time

A METAR (Meteorological Aerodrome Report) is a standardised weather observation from a specific aerodrome, issued at regular intervals (typically every 30 minutes or hourly). It provides data on wind direction and speed, visibility, cloud cover, temperature, dew point, and pressure — all useful for UAS flight planning.

Question 40: What is the significance of a drone manufacturer's specified 'maximum wind speed rating' for a commercial operator?

The rating is a guideline only and may be exceeded by experienced pilots
The rating applies only to indoor flying; outdoor limits are set by the CAA
It refers to storage conditions, not operational limits
Operations must not take place when wind speeds exceed this rating — it defines the aircraft's safe operating envelope (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Operations must not take place when wind speeds exceed this rating — it defines the aircraft's safe operating envelope

The manufacturer's maximum wind speed rating defines the operational envelope for which the aircraft was designed and tested. Exceeding this limit risks loss of control because the drone's motors cannot maintain stable flight against stronger winds. Commercial operators must check forecast and actual wind conditions before and during flight.

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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