UAS Radio Operator Certificate: communicate safely in the airspace
Official qualification for the use of aeronautical radiocommunications in drone operations.
What is the UAS Radio Operator certificate?
The UAS Radio Operator certificate qualifies the pilot to use aeronautical radio frequencies during operations, enabling direct coordination with air traffic control (ATC) and other operators. It is a requirement for certain operations in controlled airspace and a key differentiator in complex professional operations.
Entry requirements:
- A1/A3 Certificate
- Registration as a UAS operator with AESA
WHY GET CERTIFIED WITH VISTER?
- Official qualification to operate with ATC communication in controlled airspace
- Official AESA theory exam with dedicated preparation included
- Supervised practice: in person or by video call, subject to availability
- Training with real aeronautical phraseology and procedures
Syllabus
- Standard aeronautical phraseology
- Aeronautical phonetic alphabet
- Air-to-ground communication procedures
- Communication priorities
- Emergency messages (MAYDAY / PAN PAN)
- Requests, clearances and notifications
- Structure of a communication with ATC
- Reading QNH, QDM, QDR, altitudes and headings
How does the process work?
- Theory training: Dedicated materials on aeronautical phraseology and procedures.
- Official AESA theory exam: Multiple choice, 75% to pass.
- Supervised practice: Review of the VAC chart, phonetic alphabet and a real operation simulation. In person or by video call.
- Radio Operator certificate issued: Ready to operate in controlled airspace.
UAS radio operator certificate price
€199 — official training exempt from VAT. Original price €229.
Duration: 41 hours — 40 of theory and 1 of practice
Includes:
- Specific preparation for the official AESA theory exam
- Supervised practice, in person or by video call depending on availability
- Training in real aeronautical phraseology and procedures
- UAS radio operator certificate
What it is for: Flying in controlled CTR airspace and communicating directly with the control tower.
Requirements: A1/A3 certificate and registration as a UAS operator with AESA.
Fees: No official fees: AESA exams are free of charge. The price covers the training, the study materials and the exam preparation.
Have questions? Ask us with no obligation
Prefer to talk directly? Message us on WhatsApp.
Take the next step
Combine the Radio Operator with the STS qualification for complete professional operations.
End-to-end management of permits for your operations.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Radio Operator certificate mandatory?
It is mandatory to operate in certain controlled airspaces. For uncontrolled zones it is not strictly necessary, but it is a common requirement in complex professional operations.
Can the practice be done by video call?
Yes. It can be carried out in person or by video call, subject to the student’s availability.
What is the VAC chart?
The VAC chart (Visual Approach Chart) sets out the visual approach procedures to an aerodrome. It is worked on during the practice as part of the real operation simulation.
Do I need the Radio Operator for the STS?
It is not a mandatory requirement for the STS, but it is highly recommended for any pilot operating in environments with ATC coordination.
What is the difference between the theory exam and the practice?
The theory exam assesses knowledge of phraseology and procedures. The practice consists of a real aeronautical communication simulation where everything learned is put into practice.
Our team of instructors
Qualified pilots with real experience who support you throughout your training.
Martin Llatas
Joan Company
