The practical training covers a range of normal handling exercises, operational tasks, and scenario-based events.
Rotorcraft flight profiles
For rotorcraft aircraft, training may include the following:
Basic movement in GPS mode, including level flight, yaw changes, and return flight
Standard circuit flying in GPS mode
Box pattern hovering
Top Hat manoeuvres combining level flight, climbs, and descents
Controlled 45-degree ascents and descents
Figure of 8 flight
Non-positioning mode handling where applicable, including maintaining control and landing safely following a simulated loss of positioning
Orientation awareness, including recognising and recovering from disorientation
Fixed wing flight profiles
For fixed wing aircraft, training may include:
Waypointed flight within VLOS
Amending waypoints during flight where active ground control is available
Basic manual handling, including level flight, heading control, altitude control, airspeed awareness, and climbing and descending turns
Mission management functions such as pause, loiter, and landing management
Scenario-based and emergency profiles
Both rotorcraft and fixed wing practical training may also include:
Loss of positioning scenarios
Low-energy management and decision-making
Responding to simulated ground incursions and air incursions
Monitoring and, where required, intervening during Return to Home
Managing simulated technical failures
Maintaining airspace discipline and correcting potential boundary breaches
Do I need to be able to do all of these before I attend?
No.
You are not expected to arrive already proficient in these manoeuvres. The purpose of the course is to provide the instruction and practical coaching needed to develop the required standard.
Any practice you do before the course should be viewed as helpful preparation, rather than a requirement.