RPC _ Remote Pilot Certificate Licence Sponsorship

Important: Please Read All Information Below Carefully Before Applying - any applications not meeting the requirements will be considered.

Applications not completed as required will not be considered.  Aviation is detailed and we need you to be detailed.

We strongly urge all applicants to thoroughly review the full details and requirements outlined below before submitting your application. This ensures you fully understand the programme, the selection criteria, and your responsibilities if accepted.

Do Your Research Before Applying

We strongly encourage you to conduct your own research — via Google or other trusted sources — to gain a clear understanding of what a Drone Pilot does, the responsibilities involved, and what the career path entails.

It is important that you are fully informed and confident that this is the right career choice for you before applying for this opportunity.

Skills And Qualities Required to Become A Drone Pilot

Becoming a professional Drone Pilot requires more than just flying skills - it demands technical knowledge, discipline, and strong decision-making ability.  As drones are an essential part of the aviation industry, pilots must uphold the same standards expected of manned aviation professionals.

Key Skills and Attributes:

  • A solid understanding of Mathematics and Physics 
  • The ability to understand technical information and how aircraft systems work
  • Excellent spatial awareness and hand-eye co-ordination
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • The ability to think quickly and make sound decisions under pressure
  • A calm, focused mindset during challenging situations
  • High levels of discipline, self-confidence, and personal commitment
  • Natural leadership ability and the confidence to issue clear instruction
  • Speak English proficiently - aviation language globally
  • Logical thinking and the ability to work independently
  • A capacity to understand concepts deeply, not just memorise information
  • A genuine and strong interest in aviation and technology
  • The ability to visualise and think in 3D
  • A readiness to accept responsibility and operate with integrity                                                  

Important Note About the Training

Aviation is a highly disciplined industry - and drones are fully integrated into this sector, yet operated in various other sectors but still regulated by SACAA (South African Civil Aviation Authority)

The training to become a licenced Drone Pilot is intensive and academically demanding.  It requires long hours of study, attention to detail, and consistent dedication.

Selection Process & Application Process

Due to the high standards of the industry and limited space available, strict selection criteria applies. Only candidates who meet all the outlined requirements will be considered.

Step1: Complete the Online Questionaire

  • Answer all questions honestly - there are no right or wrong answers.
  • A selection panel will review your application
  • Should you make it through to the next step, you will be contacted via email or WhatsApp for the next process

If you are successful in the first stage, you will be guided through the next steps of the application process and provided with full programme details.

Please ensure your contact details are correct and accurate to avoid missing any important communication.

Terms and conditions apply. Only serious, committed applicants will be considered

SELECTION CRITERIA – DRONE PILOT TRAINING PROGRAMME

To be eligible for consideration, applicants must meet all the following criteria:

  1. Age: Between 21 and 35 years old
  2. Open to both Female and Male applicants
  3. Education:
    • Must have passed Matric (Grade 12) within the last 6 years with maths
    • Must hold a postgraduate diploma or degree (Matric/Grade 12 is not a Post Graduate Degree/Diploma)
  4. Criminal Record: Must have no criminal record
  5. Health:
    • Must be in good health with no underlying medical conditions
    • Must be able to pass a Class 3 Aviation Medical Examination (required by the SACAA)
  6. Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen with a valid South African ID
  7. Mobility:
    • Must be able to travel around South Africa if needed
    • Must hold a valid driver’s licence
    • Resident in Gauteng or North West
  8. Availability:
    • Must be able to attend full time a 21-day training programme away from home
    • Must be available to attend an in-person interview at your own cost (if shortlisted) in Edenvale, Johannesburg, Gauteng
    • If accepted, you must be able to travel to and from the SACAA accredited training academy in Honeydew, Johannesburg, Gauteng, at your own expense
    • Not be on any other sponsorship/learnership or internship
    • Currently not be employed
    • Reside in Gauteng

Please ensure you meet all criteria before submitting your application. Only complete and eligible applications will be reviewed.

 Apply for Sponsorship: Drone Pilot Qualification (South Africa)

 Complete the Questionnaire Below to Be Considered

We are offering limited sponsorship opportunities for individuals who are serious about pursuing a career as a licensed Drone Pilot in South Africa.

This initiative is 100% legitimate, legal, and aligned with our commitment to integrity and youth development. We are passionate about creating real opportunities for skills training and employment, especially for previously disadvantaged individuals.

 Please only apply if:

  • You are genuinely interested in aviation and drone operations
  • You understand what a drone is and what a Drone Pilot's responsibilities are
  • You believe this is a suitable and realistic career path for you
  • You are committed to completing the full training process

Note:
Due to limited space and funding, only serious, qualifying candidates will be considered.

This is your chance to launch a professional career in the growing drone industry — with the right support behind you.

Please Note:
All applications must be submitted exclusively through the official link provided.
Applications submitted via Email, WhatsApp, or Telephone will NOT be accepted or considered under any circumstances below.

Legal Disclaimer – Sponsorship Programme

Please note that submission of an application does not guarantee sponsorship. All applications will be evaluated by a dedicated selection panel based on the specified criteria.

The panel’s decision is final, and no correspondence, negotiation, or appeals regarding the outcome will be entered into.

By submitting your application, you acknowledge and accept the terms and conditions of this sponsorship process.

 

POPIA Legal Disclaimer – Protection of Personal Information

In accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), Act No. 4 of 2013, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is processed lawfully, transparently, and securely.

By submitting your application for the Drone Pilot Sponsorship Programme, you consent to the collection, use, and processing of your personal information for the purpose of:

  • Assessing your eligibility for sponsorship
  • Contacting you regarding the outcome of your application
  • Conducting background checks as required (e.g. verification of ID, qualifications, and criminal record status)

Your information will be kept confidential and will only be shared with authorised personnel and third-party service providers directly involved in the administration of this programme. It will not be sold or used for unrelated purposes.

You have the right to:

Request access to your personal information

  • Correct or update your details
  • Withdraw your consent at any time (subject to legal and contractual obligations)

For more information about how we handle your data, or to submit a data-related request, please contact us at sponsorship@theacademyofaviation.co.za.