Drone by Drone has provided training for a new round of student pilots to obtain the radio operator certificate, in accordance with the regulatory requirements contained in Royal Decree 517/2024.
To be able to fly UAS in a UAS geographic area for operational reasons subject to coordination or authorization by ATC services, the drone pilot will be required to have training in aeronautical communications for the use of the air band (aeronautical mobile service) to establish communications with the Control Tower or with other manned or unmanned aircraft.
In accordance with Article 34 of Royal Decree 517/2024, the UAS pilot must demonstrate theoretical and practical knowledge, including:
- A theoretical training certificate as a radio operator issued by the State Aviation Safety Agency, which will be valid indefinitely; and
- A practical training certificate for radio operators issued by an examiner authorized by the State Aviation Safety Agency, following demonstration of aeronautical communications competencies. This certificate will be valid for two years from the date of issue.
As of June 30, 2026, radio operator certificates issued under Royal Decree 1036/2017 will no longer be valid for proving the competency of UAS pilots who require this qualification. Therefore, the Bilbao drone operator is already offering our students training under the new standard.
Remember that the First Transitional Provision of Royal Decree 517/2024 states:
Validity of radio operator certificates issued under Royal Decree 1036/2017, of December 15.
Radio operator certificates issued by an approved training organization (ATO) or microlight school in accordance with Article 33, section 1, letter e) of Royal Decree 1036/2017, of December 15, will continue to be valid to certify the requirement of having the knowledge and skills for using the air band (aeronautical mobile service) to establish aeronautical communications referred to in Article 34, for two years from the entry into force of this Royal Decree.
Student pilots have been able to enjoy and benefit from in-person training, both theoretical and practical, in addition to taking the corresponding exam before a competent examiner.
Do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to apply for the next call.
