RPAS – Drones – UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)

What is a Drone Pilot Licence in South Africa?

A Drone Pilot Licence in South Africa, also known as a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC), is issued under SACAA regulations and allows pilots to legally operate drones for commercial and professional use. The licence is obtained through an SACAA-accredited RPAS training organisation.

How do I become a licensed drone pilot in South Africa?

To become a licensed drone pilot, you must:

1. Enrol with an SACAA-accredited RPAS training academy like The Academy of Aviation – SACAA/ATO/1056

2. Must be Medically Fit – Pass a medical examination – get a Class 3 Medical

3. Pass the theory examinations

4. Complete Restricted Radio Telephony (R/T) and English Language Proficiency (ELP)

5. Pass practical flight training and final assessment

Successful candidates qualify for an RPC (Remote Pilot Certificate).

How long does it take to get a Drone Pilot Licence?

Drone pilot training typically takes 15–21 days full-time. This depends on the individual’s understanding of the knowledge transferred and passing the required minimum 75% pass mark. Part-time training is available, subject to enrolment numbers. SACAA regulations require the final skills test to be completed within 90 days of the final theory exam for part-time students.

Is drone pilot training SACAA accredited?

Yes. All training, theory exams, practical instruction, and assessments are conducted in accordance with SACAA regulations at SACAA-approved facilities, using accredited instructors and designated UAV examiners.

Do I need aviation experience to become a drone pilot?

No previous aviation experience is required. The RPAS training programme is designed for beginners, covering all aviation theory, regulations, radio procedures, and practical flight skills needed to qualify as a drone pilot.

What subjects are covered in RPAS theory training?

RPAS theory training includes:

• Air Law and Regulations

• Airspace and Navigation

• Radio Telephony

• Meteorology

• Aerodynamics

• Human Factors

• Emergency Procedures

• Drone Systems, Maintenance, and Pre-flight Inspections

Students write an SACAA-accredited theory exam on completion.

Is Radio Telephony (RT) required for a Drone Pilot Licence?

Yes. All RPC candidates must hold a Restricted Radio Telephony (RT) licence.
This is the same RT licence required for a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) in manned aviation. Candidates must pass the Restricted Radio Telephony exam at SACAA and complete a practical radio assessment with a SACAA-registered examiner.

Why is a Radio Telephony (RT) licence important for drone pilots?

A Radio Telephony licence is essential for aviation safety. Drone pilots often operate in shared airspace with manned aircraft, including helicopters and light aircraft. RT ensures pilots can:

• Communicate clearly with Air Traffic Control (ATC)

• Maintain situational awareness

• Prevent mid-air conflicts

• Operate safely in controlled and uncontrolled airspace

Effective radio communication is critical for safe integration between drones and manned aviation.

What is English Language Proficiency (ELP) for drone pilots?

English Language Proficiency (ELP) is a SACAA requirement to ensure pilots can communicate safely and accurately. Students get assessed for 1- 2 hours with an ELP accredited examiner.

Where does practical drone flight training take place?

Practical training begins on a flight simulator and progresses to live drone operations at a SACAA-approved drone training field. All training and assessments are conducted at the Academy’s approved premises.

How many flight hours are required to qualify as a drone pilot?

There is no fixed number of flight hours. Training is competency-based, and students continue until they meet SACAA operational and safety standards.

What happens during the final drone pilot skills test?

A SACAA-designated UAV examiner assesses flight control, emergency procedures, operational decision-making, radio communication, and regulatory compliance. Successful completion qualifies the student for Remote Pilot Competency (RPC).

What documents are required to enrol for drone pilot training?

Students must provide:

• Certified ID or passport copies

• Colour ID photographs

• Class 3 aviation medical

• Signed indemnity and contract

The Academy assists with all SACAA documentation and submissions.

Does a Drone Pilot Licence need to be renewed?

Yes. SACAA requires RPC holders to revalidate their licence every two years. The Academy offers RPC revalidation training and assessments.

Do you offer BVLOS drone training in South Africa?

Yes. We offer BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) ratings, enabling qualified pilots to conduct advanced operations beyond visual range, subject to SACAA approval.

What jobs can I get with a Drone Pilot Licence?

Licensed drone pilots work across industries such as:

• Agriculture and crop surveying

• Mining and engineering

• Construction and infrastructure inspection

• Environmental and conservation monitoring

• Marine and offshore operations

• Mapping, surveying, and logistics

• Security
• Search and rescue
• Insurance assessment
• Filming/Photography

How do I enrol for RPAS drone pilot training?

To enrol, contact the Academy of Aviation for course dates, requirements and availability – Register online www.theacademyofaviation.co.za/register-online

Does The Academy of Aviation find me a job?

The Academy of Aviation does not place graduates in employment, as our core focus is professional training and skills development. Our role is to equip students with the required qualifications, practical competence, and industry readiness to pursue a career in the drone industry. Securing employment is the next step in your professional journey and requires submitting your CV, attending interviews, and being the right fit for the hiring organisation. We prepare you for the industry – how you apply those skills is where your career truly begins.