Drone Operator

COURSE INFORMATION

Sector	Aerospace and Aviation
Sub-Sector	Drones/UAVs
Occupation	Drone Flight Operations
NSQF Level	4
Minimum Educational Qualification and Experience	8th Class Pass + ITI (2 years) + 2 years relevant experience OR 10th Class Pass + 2 years relevant experience OR 10th Class Pass + ITI (1 years) + 1-year relevant experience OR 10th Class Pass + ITI (2 years) OR 12th Class Pass OR 10th Class Pass + Diploma (3 years)
Pre-Requisite License or Training	N/A
Minimum Job Entry Age	18-65 Years
Minimum Duration of the Course	390 hours, 0 Minutes
Maximum Duration of the Course	399 hours, 0 Minutes

Compulsory Modules

The table lists the modules, their duration and mode of delivery.

NOS and Module Details	Theory Duration	PracticalDuration	On-the-Job Training Duration (Mandatory)	On-the-Job Training Duration (Recommended)	Total Duration
AAS/N6301: Conducting pre-flight inspections, checks and operations NOS Version No. – 1.0 NSQF Level – 4	17:00	25:00	20:00	00:00	62:00
AAS/N6302: Flying the Mission NOS Version No. – 1.0 NSQF Level – 4	40:00	70:00	30:00	00:00	140:00
AAS/N6303: Conducting post-flight operations, checks and inspections NOS Version No. – 1.0 NSQF Level – 4	17:00	25:00	20:00	00:00	62.00
AAS/N0502 – Follow safety and security procedures NOS Version No. – 1.0 NSQF Level - 3	10:00	10:00	05:00	00:00	25:00
AAS/N0501 Take action to deal with incidents, accidents, and emergencies in the aviation security environment NOS Version No. – 1.0 NSQF Level - 4	16:00	18:00	05:00	00:00	39:00
ELE/N9905 – Work effectively at the workplace NOS Version No. – 2.0 NSQF Level - 4	16:00	24:00	05:00	00:00	45:00
THC/N9916 Follow and Maintain Green Practices NOS Version No. 1.0 NSQF Level 4	4:00	08:00	05:00	00:00	17:00
Total Duration	120:00	180:00	90:00	00:00	390:00

NOS and Module Details	Theory Duration	PracticalDuration	On-the-Job Training Duration (Mandatory)	On-the-Job Training Duration (Recommended)	Total Duration
HSS/N9624 – Maintain a safe and secure working environment NOS Version No. – 1.0 NSQF Level - 4	02:00	07:00	00:00	00:00	09:00
Total Duration	02:00	07:00	00:00	00:00	09:00

MODULE DETAILS

Module 1: Conducting pre-flight inspections, checks and operations

Bridge Module or Mapped to AAS/N6301 v 1.0

Terminal Outcomes:

• Conducting pre-flight inspections

• Visually inspect the drone for structural damages, inspect camera and battery for bulges and leaks in the case of battery powered drones, check check for leaks in fuel tank and cracks in the fuel tank housing in case of Internal Combustion (I.C) engine propulsion drones • Inspect the propeller and the motor for free of rotational blockages and inspect the cleanliness of drone

• Pre-flight checks

• check battery levels of the drone, remote control transmitter and Ground Control Station (GCS), the various components of the fuel system like battery / IC engine are secured to the drone as applicable, fuel pressure, temperature and quantity, in case of IC engine propulsion drone • Check RPM and phase sensor to calculate the ignition timing, if motors are mounted and secured tightly and if the motor direction of rotation is in the correct sequence and applicable to the drone frame type (quad, hexa, octa) • Check if propellers are correctly installed that is CW (Pusher) propeller to the CW motor and CCW (Puller) propeller to the CCW motor, verify if the drone has acquired the navigation location from at least 4 satellites using GPS/NavIC communication • Check if the camera/s are securely attached, check for the proper control and command link (C2 link) between drone, remote control transmitter and Ground Control Station (GCS), check if there is any component (including payload) not secured and interrupting the functions of drone • Check if the electronic components such as flight controller, ESC (Electronic Speed Controller), GPS/NavIC , telemetry, receiver, transmitter, safety switch, buzzer are operating properly

• Pre-flight operations:

• make sure the command & control link (C2 link) is established, • calibrate the drone compass and IMU sensors (accelerometer) • calibrate the RPM sensor for ignition timing and log engine RPM into the flight • configure the three position switch of the remote control transmitter to operate the engine • check for the correct movement and functioning of drone using the remote-control transmitter • check the landing lock is in removed condition if required • perform hand test or bench test for proper operation with the experienced instructor, if necessary • perform flight maneuvers (Hover, Level, Yaw, Pitch and Roll) • make sure full and free of movement of camera gimbal and the camera is fully functional within range

Duration: 20:00	Duration: 28:00
Theory – Key Learning Outcomes	Practical – Key Learning Outcomes
•calibrate the RPM sensor for ignition timing and log engine RPM into the flight	• Visually inspect the drone for structural damages, inspect camera and battery for bulges and leaks in the case of battery powered drones, check check for leaks in fuel tank and cracks in the fuel tank housing in case of Internal Combustion (I.C) engine propulsion drones • Inspect the propeller and the motor for free of rotational blockages and inspect the cleanliness of drone • check battery levels of the drone, remote control transmitter and Ground Control Station (GCS), the various components of the fuel system like battery / IC engine are secured to the drone as applicable, fuel pressure, temperature and quantity, in case of IC engine propulsion drone • Check RPM and phase sensor to calculate the ignition timing, if motors are mounted and secured tightly and if the motor direction of rotation is in the correct sequence and applicable to the drone frame type (quad, hexa, octa) • Check if propellers are correctly installed that is CW (Pusher) propeller to the CW motor and CCW (Puller) propeller to the CCW motor, verify if the drone has acquired the navigation location from at least 4 satellites using GPS/NavIC communication • Check if the camera/s are securely attached, check for the proper control and command link (C2 link) between drone, remote control transmitter and Ground Control Station (GCS), check if there is any component (including payload) not secured and interrupting the functions of drone • Check if the electronic components such as flight controller, ESC (Electronic Speed Controller), GPS/NavIC, telemetry, receiver, transmitter, safety switch, buzzer are operating properly • make sure the command & control link (C2 link) is established, • calibrate the drone compass and IMU sensors (accelerometer) • configure the three position switch of the remote control transmitter to operate the engine. • check for the correct movement and functioning of drone using the remote- control transmitter • check the landing lock is in removed condition if required • perform hand test or bench test for proper operation with the experienced instructor, if necessary • perform flight maneuvers (Hover, Level, Yaw, Pitch and Roll) • make sure full and free of movement of camera gimbal and the camera is fully functional within range

Module 2: Flying the mission

Bridge Module or Mapped to AAS/N6302 v 1.0

Terminal Outcomes:

• Mission Inspections

• check for UIN/DAN of drone available on ‘Digitalsky’ (https://digitalsky.dgca.gov.in/) platform • check for ETA (Equipment Type Approval) • inspect registration markings or manufacture serial number for proper displaying in the drone • check if the drone is ‘No Permission - No Take-off (NPNT)’ protocol compliant • inspect the mission approval detail and purpose • inspect if the mission detail is informed to local police station of the mission area • inspect the risk management or mitigation plan and standard operating procedures (SOP) • inspect registration markings or manufacture serial number for proper displaying in the drone • fill the log required to be filled by the drone pilot

•Mission checks:

• obtain weather MET briefing, ATC briefing and local police briefing • obtain aerial photography clearance for operating drone, if necessary/applicable for the mission • obtain emergency contact number of nearby police station, hospital, fire station and ATC • ensure the mission area is not near to the airport or ‘No drone’ zone • obtain the operational restrictions or regulations of mission area • inspect control link transmitter, receiver, communication and navigation data link transceiver • and antenna/s • check on board strength of C2 (command & control) link • check if the payload data transmission link is proper • check if the Ground Control Station (GCS) flight planning software is updated with latest firmware • check if the displaying units ( GCS, remote controller/transmitter) are having sufficient battery level

Mission plan:

• obtain the mission plan from the organisation/stakeholder • check if the mission type is manual or autonomous • check if the mission is BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) and approval is made as per the regulations for drone operation • check if the waypoint navigation, geo-fence of drone is proper • check if the fail-safe feature such as RTH/RTL (Return-to-home/launch), detect and avoid is enabled • check the main landing area or drone ports and alternate drone ports • obtain NPNT permission (permission artefact (PA)) from the Digital Sky for the drone mission

• Mission operations:

• establish proper C2 (command & control link) • check the terrain for operating the drone for no obstacles • fly the drone as per the mission plan • maintain VLOS (Visual Line of Sight) of the drone i.e., ensure drone is in FPV (First Person View) during operation • check if the BVLOS drone operation is in control and as per the permitted limit of operation • check the battery level of drone from the Ground Control Station (GCS) • make sure the drone is in pilot control and not breaching the mission plan • keep the operational area clear and safe for the mission (in case of anomaly, perform appropriate flight operations and inform concerned authorities

Duration: 40:00	Duration: 65:00
Theory – Key Learning Outcomes	Practical – Key Learning Outcomes
• check for UIN/DAN of drone available on ‘Digitalsky’ (https://digitalsky.dgca.gov.in/) platform • check for ETA (Equipment Type Approval) • check if the drone is ‘No Permission - No Take-off (NPNT)’ protocol compliant • fill the log required to be filled by the drone pilot • obtain weather MET briefing, ATC briefing and local police briefing • obtain aerial photography clearance for operating drone, if necessary/applicable for the mission • obtain emergency contact number of nearby police station, hospital, fire station and ATC • ensure the mission area is not near to the airport or ‘No drone’ zone • obtain the operational restrictions or regulations of mission area • obtain the mission plan from the organisation/stakeholder • obtain NPNT permission (permission artefact (PA)) from the Digital Sky for the drone mission	• inspect registration markings or manufacture serial number for proper displaying in the drone • inspect the mission approval detail and purpose • inspect if the mission detail is informed to local police station of the mission area • inspect the risk management or mitigation plan and standard operating procedures (SOP) • inspect registration markings or manufacture serial number for proper displaying in the drone • inspect control link transmitter, receiver, communication and navigation data link transceiver • and antenna/s • check on board strength of C2 (command & control) link • check if the payload data transmission link is proper • check if the Ground Control Station (GCS) flight planning software is updated with latest firmware • check if the displaying units ( GCS, remote controller/transmitter) are having sufficient battery level • check if the mission type is manual or autonomous • check if the mission is BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) and approval is made as per the regulations for drone operation • check if the waypoint navigation, geo- fence of drone is proper • check if the fail-safe feature such as RTH/RTL (Return-to-home/launch), detect and avoid is enabled • check the main landing area or drone ports and alternate drone ports • establish proper C2 (command & control link) • check the terrain for operating the drone for no obstacles • fly the drone as per the mission plan • maintain VLOS (Visual Line of Sight) of the drone i.e., ensure drone is in FPV (First Person View) during operation • check if the BVLOS drone operation is in control and as per the permitted limit of operation • check the battery level of drone from the Ground Control Station (GCS) • make sure the drone is in pilot control and not breaching the mission plan • keep the operational area clear and safe for the mission (in case of anomaly, perform appropriate flight operations andinform concerned authorities

Module 3: Conducting post-flight operations, checks and inspections

Bridge Module or Mapped to AAS/N6303 v 1.0

Terminal Outcomes:

•Pre-landing operations

• check the landing area or drone port for any object/obstacle/personnel • check the weather condition and wind speed for conducive landing • bring the drone steady for landing mode • ensure if the drone landed safely and disarmed (deactivated) • perform mission completion procedure and shutdown checks • check if the drone is not powered • check if the C2 link between drone, transmitter and Ground Control Station (GCS) is disconnected • ensure proper packing of tools, remote control transmitter and RPAS equipment

• Post Landing inspections

• inform authorities of having completed the mission • record the battery voltage level and the flight time • record the fuel quantity, in case of I.C engine powered drone • download the flight logs, sign and bundle it. • upload the flight logs to the digital sky portal - permission request screen • make an entry in the log book • transfer the data (imagery or video) recorded onboard the drone during flight to the Ground Control Station (GCS)

• Post Flight Checks:

• visually inspect the drone for structural damage • check if the battery is removed from drones and also from the remote control transmitter in case of battery powered drones. • verify if the camera/sensors are shut down • inspect the battery for bulges, leaks, signs of heating or burnt odor for battery powered drones and leakages/abnormalities in case of I.C engine powered drones • check for the damage in RPM (rotations per minute) sensor in case of I.C engine powered drone • ensure the camera/gimbal or any other attached payload is removed safely • inspect the propellers, motors, camera/s, payload and drone components for foreign debris ingestion, damage, burnt odor and signs of heating • store the batteries, propellers, remote control transmitter, landing pads, drone micro-SD card, camera/s or payload and the ancillary equipment safely in their respective area • verify if any components of drone are fallen anywhere or missed

Duration: 20:00	Duration: 28:00
Theory – Key Learning Outcomes	Practical – Key Learning Outcomes
• inform authorities of having completed the mission • record the battery voltage level and the flight time • record the fuel quantity, in case of I.C engine powered drone • make an entry in the logbook	• check the landing area or drone port for any object/obstacle/personnel • check the weather condition and wind speed for conducive landing • bring the drone steady for landing mode • ensure if the drone landed safely and disarmed (deactivated) • perform mission completion procedure and shutdown checks • check if the drone is not powered • check if the C2 link between drone, transmitter and Ground Control Station (GCS) is disconnected • ensure proper packing of tools, remote control transmitter and RPAS equipment • download the flight logs, sign and bundle it. • upload the flight logs to the digital sky portal - permission request screen • transfer the data (imagery or video) recorded onboard the drone during flight to the Ground Control Station (GCS) • visually inspect the drone for structural damage • check if the battery is removed from drones and also from the remote control transmitter in case of battery powered drones. • verify if the camera/sensors are shut down • inspect the battery for bulges, leaks, signs of heating or burnt odor for battery powered drones and leakages/abnormalities in case of I.C engine powered drones • check for the damage in RPM (rotations per minute) sensor in case of I.C engine powered drone • ensure the camera/gimbal or any other attached payload is removed safely • inspect the propellers, motors, camera/s, payload and drone components for foreign debris ingestion, damage, burnt odor and signs of heating • store the batteries, propellers, remote control transmitter, landing pads, drone micro-SD card, camera/s or payload and the ancillary equipment safely in their respective area • verify if any components of drone are fallen anywhere or missed

Module 4: Take actions to deal with incidents, accidents, and emergencies in the aviation security environment

Bridge Module or Mapped to AAS/N0501 v 1.0

Terminal Outcomes:

• comprehend the probability and severity of emergency situations • take action to deal with emergencies, incidents or accidents in line with the organisation’s procedures andregulatory guidelines • make sure the action planned does not increase the risk or threat to self and others • consider the needs of others when taking action • keep all the relevant and appropriate person(s) informed on action taken in line with organisation’s procedures • get help from the appropriate sources in situation(s) that are outside your own authority or ability • document all actions taken to mitigate risks/emergencies in line with organisation procedures and regulatory guidelines

Duration: 10:00	Duration: 10:00
Theory – Key Learning Outcomes	Practical – Key Learning Outcomes
• keep all the relevant and appropriate person(s) informed on action taken in line with organisation’s procedures • get help from the appropriate sources in situation(s) that are outside your own authority or ability • document all actions taken to mitigate risks/emergencies in line with organisation procedures and regulatory guidelines	• comprehend the probability and severity of emergency situations • take action to deal with emergencies, incidents or accidents in line with the organisation’s procedures and regulatory guidelines • make sure the action planned does not increase the risk or threat to self and others • consider the needs of others when taking action

Module 5: Follow safety and security procedures

Bridge Module or Mapped to AAS/N0502 v 1.0

Terminal Outcomes:

• comprehend the organisation’s safety and security policies and procedures • comprehend the regulatory guidelines on safe conduct of operations and maintenance of conditions to thwart any acts of unlawful interference • report any identified breaches of safety, and security policies and procedures to the designated person • coordinate with other resources at the workplace (within and outside the organisation) to achieve safe and secure environment • identify and mitigate any safety and security hazards like illness, accidents, fires or acts of unlawful interference if it falls within the limits of individual’s authority • report any hazards outside the individual’s authority to the relevant person in line with organisational procedures and regulatory guidelines • follow organisation’s emergency procedures for incidents or accidents, fires or acts of unlawful interference • identify and recommend opportunities for improving health, safety, and security to the designated person • ensure completion of all health and safety records are updates and procedures well defined

Duration: 10:00	Duration: 17:00
Theory – Key Learning Outcomes	Practical – Key Learning Outcomes
• identify and mitigate any safety and security hazards like illness, accidents, fires or acts of unlawful interference if it falls within the limits of individual’s authority • follow organisation’s emergency procedures for incidents or accidents, fires or acts of unlawful interference • identify and recommend opportunities for improving health, safety, and security to the designated person • ensure completion of all health and safety records are updates and procedures well defined	• comprehend the organisation’s safety and security policies and procedures • comprehend the regulatory guidelines on safe conduct of operations and maintenance of conditions to thwart any acts of unlawful interference • report any identified breaches of safety, and security policies and procedures to the designated person • coordinate with other resources at the workplace (within and outside the organisation) to achieve safe and secure environment • report any hazards outside the individual’s authority to the relevant person in line with organisational procedures and regulatory guidelines

Module 6: Work effectively at the workplace

Bridge Module or Mapped to NOS: ELE/N9905 v 2.0

Terminal Outcomes:

• Work effectively at the workplace. • Demonstrate practices related to gender and PwD sensitization.

Duration: 16:00	Duration: 24:00
Theory – Key Learning Outcomes	Practical – Key Learning Outcomes
• Discuss how to convey information/instructions diligently and pass it on to authorized persons/team members whenever required. • State the importance of effective communication and interpersonal skills. • Discuss how to be responsible and disciplined at the workplace. • Describe the common reasons for interpersonal conflict and ways of managing it effectively. • State the importance of work ethics and workplace etiquette. • Explain the ways to create gender and PwD sensitivity. • Explain the concept and importance of gender (e.g. as a social construct), gender sensitivity, gender equality etc. • Discuss organisational guidelines for dress code, time schedules, language usage and other behavioural aspects. • Explain the guidelines and legal requirements on disclosure and confidentiality • Explain the process of reporting grievances and unethical conduct (sexual harassment at workplace etc.).	• Demonstrate how to work as per the workflow of organization to receive instructions and report problems. • Develop a sample plan to achieve organisational goals and targets. • Create a sample feedback form to obtain feedback from customers, colleagues etc. • Demonstrate use of appropriate behaviour and language that is respectful of disability and the gender. • Demonstrate ways of dealing with heightened emotions of self and others

Module 7: Follow and maintain Green Practices

Bridge Module or Mapped to AAS/N9916 v 1.0

Terminal Outcomes:

• Follow material conservation and eco-friendly practices • Ensure effective waste management/recycling practices

Duration: 04:00	Duration: 08:00
Theory – Key Learning Outcomes	Practical – Key Learning Outcomes
• Explain different types of waste water • Describe methods to manage non- recyclable waste • Explain the need for following eco-friendly practices • Explain common sources of pollution and ways to minimize them	• Demonstrate material conservation practices like using dead, dry fallen sticks instead of big logs for bonfire etc. • Demonstrate methods to dispose-off non- recyclable waste appropriately • Employ appropriate methods to reuse and recycle waste

Module 8: Maintain a safe and secure working environment

Bridge Module or Mapped to HSS/N9624 v 1.0

Terminal Outcomes:

• Perform Basic Life Support or basic first aid in medical emergency situations, as and when required. • Respond to institutional emergencies appropriately.

Duration: 02:00	Duration: 07:00
Theory – Key Learning Outcomes	Practical – Key Learning Outcomes
• Explain the basics of first aid. • List the precautions to be taken for personal safety. • Discuss how to perform Basic Life Support (BLS). • Explain the use of protective devices such as restraints and safety devices. • Identify precautions to be taken for self- safety. • Explain about disaster management techniques to deal with institutional emergencies. • Discuss about the escalation matrix for referral and management of common emergencies	• Create a chart depicting different types of protective devices such as restraints and safety devices. • Create a flow chart depicting common emergency situations and its referral mechanism.