The GVC Practical Flight Assessment checks that you can safely plan and conduct a VLOS operation, control the aircraft during normal flight, and respond appropriately to abnormal and emergency situations. The exact sequence may vary depending on the aircraft, site and conditions.
Multirotor flight profiles
For multirotor aircraft, the assessment may include:
Take-off, post-take-off checks, approach and landing
Basic movement and controlled flight in GPS-stabilised mode
Standard circuit flying
Top Hat manoeuvres
Controlled 45-degree ascents and descents
Figure of 8 flight
Flying to specified positions, changing aircraft orientation and returning safely
Maintaining VLOS, appropriate speed control and situational awareness
Monitoring aircraft status, endurance and weather throughout the flight
Where the aircraft can be manually operated in ATTI or another non-positioning mode, you may also be required to demonstrate position holding, basic movement, a standard circuit and safe recovery or landing following simulated loss of GPS positioning.
Fixed wing flight profiles
For fixed wing aircraft, the assessment may include:
Waypointed flight while remaining within VLOS
Changing a waypoint during flight where Active Ground Control is available
Demonstrating appropriate control and management of the aircraft throughout the planned operation
Abnormal and emergency scenarios
During the assessment you may also be presented with simulated abnormal or emergency situations, including:
Disorientation and recovery of control
Ground incursion by an uninvolved person
Return to Home and collision avoidance
Air incursion
Simulated power loss
Simulated loss of the command and control link
Managing an aircraft that is leaving, or at risk of leaving, the operating area
Is the assessment only about flying manoeuvres?
No. The GVC Practical Flight Assessment assesses the complete operation rather than flying skill alone.
You will also be assessed on your pre-flight planning, site survey and risk assessment, aircraft inspection and set-up, operational briefing, use of your Operations Manual and Flight Reference Cards, and your understanding of relevant theoretical knowledge. After the flight, you will be expected to secure and inspect the UAS, complete appropriate records and identify any reportable occurrences.
You should approach the assessment as the remote pilot in command of a real operation, leading the flight and following your normal operating procedures.
Do I need to be able to do all of these before I attend?
You should arrive sufficiently practised and prepared to demonstrate safe, competent control of your aircraft. The GVC flight element is an assessment rather than a practical training session.
Not every manoeuvre or scenario will necessarily be tested on every assessment, but you should be prepared to demonstrate the applicable exercises and respond safely to instructions or simulated emergencies given by your assessor.