Unmanned Aircraft System Pilot/Operator Qualification Requirements and Training Study

Abstract

With the rapid development of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) technology, UAS has become indispensable in military and civilian field. Growth in number of UAS and activity has required soaring demand for UAS pilot/operator who has become a hot profession in aviation. In this paper, the UAS classification and unique characteristics of operation are stated firstly. Then, considering current requirements about UAS Pilot/Operator qualification issued by aviation authorities in U.S, UK and China, the general and special qualification requirements are analyzed, which includes professional quality, medical requirements, psychological evaluation, training requirements, operating experience and cooperation. Furthermore, based on differences between UAS and manned aircraft pilot training, the training contents and methods, especially human factor and physiological health, are discussed, which is meaningful and helpful to selection and training of UAS pilot/operator.