WHEN: Monday – Thursday, 22-25 February, 2021.
WHERE: Class will be conducted in a morning and afternoon session each of the four days from 9:00 – 12:00 and 1:00 – 3:00 using MS Teams–all times are Eastern. Computers with an operating microphone and webcam are required.
COURSE DESCRIPTION and MATERIALS: : Those who develop, manage, and operate air vehicles need to be familiar with the aviation regulatory and operating environment. This 4-day (20 hour) live virtual short course introduces the major issues involved—which are even more critical when the air vehicles are unmanned/remotely operated. This course covers the aviation environment, air vehicle capabilities and limitations, the fundamentals of air vehicle operations, and their certification. A group case study helps put the classroom learning in perspective. With clear learning objectives and packed full of examples, the course follows the outline below:

Day 1
- Introduction and Setting the Stage
- The National Airspace System
- Weather and its Impact on Operations
Day 2
- Aircraft/UAS Capabilities/limitations
- Air Vehicle Systems Overview
- Flight Avionics
- Navigation/Safety Avionics
Day 3
- Automation/Autonomy
- FAA Certification Process
- Vehicle Certification
- Operator Certification
Day 4
- Certification – Impact on Operations
- Group Case Study collaboration
- Group Case Study presentations
- Concluding Remarks
Each student is provided a set of course notes, a VFR Sectional Chart, and a textbook “Remote Pilot/Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Study Guide”.
2.0 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are awarded.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
Anyone who can benefit from an understanding of how air vehicles operate in the airspace system — their environment, how their systems are integrated, and how they (and their operators) are certified. Notably, a study of manned and unmanned air vehicle operations is not traditionally incorporated into university curricula–this course provides that foundational knowledge for those in government and industry. Although written for a technical audience, a building-block approach is used — no prior knowledge is assumed. Here are a few comments from recent offerings of similar PAI courses:
Great way to connect the dots for those working in sectors of aviation.”
Helps me to better understand how my specific system works with the other areas of the aircraft and the demands it places on the system.”
It was practical aeronautics! Simple and covered material clearly. The personal experience of the instructors added so much depth to the material.”
I loved the perspective from pilots.”
Good level of knowledge without getting bogged down with technical details, a good overview that helps understand the big picture.”
Technical expertise and laid-back approach created a relaxed but informative environment. No complaints!”
COST, REGISTRATION, and CANCELLATION POLICY: $1450 ($1400 if registered by January 22nd), $1375 for Federal Government employees — Group discounts are available.
Contact JEllsworth@PracticalAero.com, or call (719) 659-7319 for more information.
Substitutions may be made at any time. Cancellations must be received two weeks prior to course start date and are subject to a $50 fee. If you must cancel within the two-week period, and do not have a substitute, you may forfeit the entire fee. Refunds of the registration fee (only) are issued if the course is canceled.
NOTE: Any “open enrollment” courses must meet a minimum student count for the offering to be held. If the minimum count is not met, the course will be canceled not later than two weeks prior to the course start date. Practical Aeronautics will not be responsible for any travel/lodging costs incurred by the student if the course is cancelled..
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