UAS Pilot DevelopmentProgram

A comprehensive, full-time 6-month initiative designed to produce highly skilled, licensed drone pilots specialized in agricultural operations. This program addresses the growing demand for precision agricultural drone services in South Africa and beyond, preparing graduates for immediate deployment in the rapidly expanding UAS agriculture sector.

Program Timeline

1
4 Weeks

RPC VLOS & BVLOS Training

Comprehensive drone pilot certification and advanced flight training

2
1 Week

Aerial Application Training

Specialized agricultural spraying techniques and precision application

3
2-3 Days

AVSEC Training

Aviation security awareness and compliance protocols

4
6 Months

PCO Onboarding & Supervision

Professional certification and operational deployment

Complete program duration: 6+ months

Comprehensive Curriculum

Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC)

Full drone pilot course and Civil Aviation Authority-certified training with ground school covering air law, meteorology, navigation, and human factors.

Agricultural Applications

Specialized training for sugarcane, macadamia, and other high-value crops with precision spraying techniques and application guidelines.

Chemical Safety & Handling

Pesticide and fertilizer handling, calibration procedures, and comprehensive environmental safety protocols.

Mission Planning & Compliance

ROC regulatory operations, pre-flight processes, weather planning, and comprehensive reporting procedures.

Equipment & Maintenance

Drone maintenance, troubleshooting, battery care management, and safe storage practices.

Professional Excellence

Field professionalism, flight discipline, data integrity, client care, and stakeholder communication.

Program Outcomes

Hold valid certifications to operate agricultural drones, including RPC and BVLOS licenses
Be trained in compliance, safety, and security protocols including AVSEC certification
Be proficient in agricultural aerial application techniques and comprehensive flight mission planning
Be eligible for PCO accreditation and operational deployment under a valid ROC
Access to Smart Agriculture's professional network and ongoing career development opportunities in the UAS agriculture sector

This program is a key investment in building sustainable, technology-driven capacity within South Africa's UAS agriculture sector.