GM1 UAS.SPEC.060(2)(d) Responsibilities of the Remote Pilot

CAA ORS9 Decision No. 16

INFORMATION RELEVANT TO THE OPERATION MADE AVAILABLE TO THE ATS UNIT

For AMC on this requirement, in relation to controlled airspace, see AMC1 UAS.SPEC.040(1)(b).

INFORMATION PROVIDED TO OTHER AIRSPACE USERS WHEN INSIDE AN FRZ

The AIP (Section ENR 1.1 – 4.1.8) sets out when a NOTAM should be used to promulgate UAS operations, when operating within an FRZ, including inside/outside hours of operation of the aerodrome.

VHF RADIO COMMUNICATIONS TO PROVIDE INFORMATION TO THE ATS UNIT

The use of VHF RT to help meet this requirement should only be used when absolutely necessary. Such circumstances may include:

- Operations within the close vicinity of an aerodrome, where permission for entry into an FRZ/ATZ has been arranged and the use of VHF RT has been requested by the ATS Unit.

- BVLOS operations outside segregated airspace.

- Operations in close vicinity to other airspace users, such as air shows and flying displays.

It is not possible to give an exhaustive list of such circumstances when the use of VHF RT is appropriate, and it is the responsibility of the operator to apply such a mitigation appropriately. Acceptance of such a mitigation within the OM does not authorise its use. A number of requirements must also be met in order to legally make use of VHF RT, which are detailed below.

If the operation is approved with such a mitigation, then the following requirements must be met and detailed within the OM, and may also be set out within the conditions of the OA:

- Suitable VHF radio must be installed on the UA, and a relay to the ground station provided to enable RP communication. The equipment and installation must be approved by the CAA. A ground-based VHF radio must not be used. This is due to regulatory requirements set out by Ofcom. Any queries on this requirement should be directed to Ofcom.

- Appropriate licence held by the RP; this will normally be a Flight Radio Telephony Operator’s Licence (FRTOL), which must be issued by the CAA following recommendation from an examiner.

- Appropriate radio licence: the radio must either be licenced, or have an exemption from the wireless telegraphy act, to operate. Ofcom issue these licences.

Further information on radio requirements can be found in AIP GEN 1.5 section 5.

The use of RT on aeronautical band radios within the Specific category for contact with ATC should be limited to exceptional circumstances and be carried out as directed by the ATS unit with which the RP needs to communicate. In the majority of circumstances VHF RT is not required, and other methods of communication and/or procedural mitigations are sufficient.