We’re rapidly approaching a critical deadline. Effective January 1, 2024, all commercial drone pilots will be required to have an Operational Authorisation (OA), replacing the previous PfCO or NQE Certificate.

Staying compliant is essential to continue flying in the specific category. 

Under CAP 722 edition 8, B3.2.7.2 Remote pilots operating under ‘standard permission’/’PFCO’ based permissions that were first issued prior to 31 December 2020.

UAS operators are responsible for ensuring that all remote pilots flying under the terms of their permission are competent to do so, are kept in current flying practise and are kept fully aware of the applicable regulations. Until 31 December 2023 remote pilots may be used by the UAS operator if they:

• hold a GVC; or,
• hold an NQE ‘full recommendation’ obtained prior to 31 December 2020 and a valid ‘flyer ID’ that has been obtained on or after 15 December 2020; or,
• comply with one of the previously accepted Alternative Means of Compliance categories detailed in Table 3 below, are in possession of a ‘flyer ID’ that has been obtained on or after 15 December 2020, and can demonstrate currency within the past 2 years.

From 1 January 2024 onwards, all remote pilots must be in possession of a GVC.

If you need to find a company to assist you in converting from a PfCO to GVC, follow this link to ARPAS-UK Training Provider Members.