Overview of the A2 CofC
The A2 CofC is a new qualification which came into effect in the EU on December 31, 2020, as part of new European regulations.
An A2 CofC allows you to fly in the A2 or A1 Transitional subcategories of the Open Category - regardless if you want to fly as a hobbyist or make money from your drone missions. The A2 subcategory (fly close to people) will let you fly a C2 aircraft down to a maximum distance of 30m horizontally from uninvolved people. Or up to 5m in 'low-speed mode'.
From December 31, 2020, until December 31, 2022 - known as the Transitional Period - an A2 CofC will let you operate aircraft weighing up to 2kg in the A2 Transitional subcategory. You will be able to fly up to 50m horizontally from uninvolved people.
As from 1st January 2023, having an A2 CofC will also allow you to fly a drone weighing up to 500g in the A1 Transitional subcategory, which stipulates no intentional flight over uninvolved persons.
Getting an A2 CofC
The Malta Drone Centre A2 CofC course is a one-day Ground School course, culminating in a theory examination. The A2 CofC course will cover topics such as basic principles of flight, congested area operations, avoiding collision, battery safety, and environmental factors. It will culminate in the theory test that is normally carried out by the local Aviation Authority.
You will also have to complete a period of practical flight training (either with an MDC instructor or under self-monitored circumstances), but there is no flight assessment. Another requirement is to register with the local aviation authority if you have not already done so before commencing the A2 CofC course.
Cost of the A2 CofC course
The one day tutor lead classroom style on-line course costs €413 (which includes VAT) for EU residents and €350 for residents outside of the EU.
Note:
Currently, due to the COVID situation, the A2 CofC course is only being provided as an on-line course but it is still tutor lead and has all the same benefits as our normal classroom training.
Once the COVID restrictions are lifted we will again commence offering the option of attending the in-person classroom A2 CofC training at our training facilities.