Training is a cornerstone of safe and compliant drone operations. Under EASA Regulation (EU) 2019/947, and further detailed in AMC3 UAS.SPEC.050(1)(d), UAS operators are responsible not just for ensuring that their remote pilots are trained, but for establishing a structured training and oversight system across their organisation.

In this blog, we break down the required training levels starting with the Open Category and building up to the more complex Specific Category. We also explain how the AirHub Drone Operations Center helps you manage all training responsibilities effectively.

The Open Category – Basic Training for Low-Risk Operations

The Open Category covers low-risk operations that do not require prior operational authorisation. It is divided into three subcategories:

• A1: Fly over people (but not over assemblies)

• A2: Fly close to people

• A3: Fly far from people

Each subcategory has specific training requirements:

• A1/A3: Online training and exam via the National Aviation Authority (NAA)

• A2: Requires A1/A3 training plus self-practical training and an additional theoretical exam (often supervised)

While basic, these requirements still place responsibilities on UAS operators:

• Ensure that pilots have completed and passed the appropriate exams

• Record and verify completion of self-practical training (for A2)

• Maintain documentation and manage expiry dates (certificates are valid for 5 years)

The Specific Category – Higher Risk, Structured Training

Operations falling outside the Open Category, like BVLOS or urban flights, are classified as Specific Category operations. These require a risk assessment (such as SORA, PDRA, or STS) and a corresponding level of pilot training.

STS and PDRA-Based Training

Standard Scenarios (STS) and Pre-Defined Risk Assessments (PDRAs) prescribe a minimum level of training. For example:

• STS-01/02 require:

  • Theoretical and practical training

  • A certificate issued by a Recognised Entity (RE)

  • Compliance with all scenario-specific requirements

Operators must verify that their pilots meet these STS/PDRA-specific training conditions before assigning them to a mission.

SORA-Based Authorisations and Modular Training

For operations with a custom Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA), the training becomes modular and depends on the Specific Assurance and Integrity Level (SAIL). These modules may include:

• BVLOS with or without observers

• Night operations

• Populated areas

• Emergency and contingency handling

• Automated flight systems and DAA procedures

Each module may involve theoretical and/or practical training, and some require evaluation by a Recognised Entity (RE) or Competent Authority.

Under AMC3 UAS.SPEC.050(1)(d), the UAS operator must:

• Define the required competencies for each module

• Establish internal or external training programs

• Keep records of practical skill assessments

• Validate training regularly and before assigning personnel to missions

Managing Training with the AirHub Drone Operations Center

Managing training, especially in a team with multiple pilots, roles, and operational profiles, can be a challenge. The AirHub DOC makes it easier:

1. Centralised Training Oversight

• Store and track all certificates, training modules, and re-certification dates

• Log simulator hours, supervised flights, or self-practical training (A2)

• Provide alerts for expiring credentials

2. Role-Based Competency Mapping

• Define required training for each operational role

• Match training status with mission profiles

• Ensure only qualified personnel are assigned to specific operations

3. SOP and OM Integration

• Link training modules directly to your Operations Manual (OM)

• Flag missing training before mission approvals

• Embed training requirements in pre-flight workflows

4. Support for Custom Training Programs

• Define internal onboarding and recurrent training

• Track evaluations, simulator sessions, or shadowing activities

• Support audit-readiness with full training documentation

Why It Matters

Training isn’t just about compliance. It’s about safety, efficiency, and operational readiness. Under SORA, the remote pilot is a key operational safety objective (OSO). Failure to ensure adequate training can directly compromise mission safety and legal compliance.

With AirHub’s software, operators can automate the entire training lifecycle from onboarding to audit.

And with support from AirHub Consultancy, organisations can:

• Set up SORA-compliant training frameworks

• Draft custom SOPs and Operations Manuals

• Align organisational training with national and European regulations

Final Thoughts

From A1 to advanced BVLOS, training is foundational to safe drone operations. EASA expects UAS operators to take full responsibility for their teams’ qualifications and ongoing competence.

Whether you're flying in the Open or Specific Category, AirHub gives you the tools and the guidance to do it right.

Ready to simplify your training management? Get in touch with our team.