Uncrewed Aerial System Operations and Crew Requirements

 

When selecting, certifying, and training UAS operators, several critical factors come into play.

Technical Proficiency:

Candidate should display a strong understanding of uncrewed aerial systems (UASs) operations. For example, the candidate should have a general understanding on navigation, how flight controls work and basic concepts, and troubleshooting. Technical aptitude is crucial for effective performance.

Cognitive Skills: Candidate should be able to solve issues that arise, decision-making, and critical thinking abilities in handling unexpected situations during operations.

Adaptability to Technology: UAS technology is evolving rapidly. Therefore, HO need to adapt quickly to new systems, software, and equipment.

Communication Skills: Effective communication within the team, with mission control, and when responding to unforeseen challenges is vital for mission success.

Situational Awareness: HOs must maintain awareness of their surroundings, weather conditions, and potential hazards to ensure safe and efficient flights.

Adherence to Safety Protocols: Understanding and following safety guidelines and protocols is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.

Emotional Resilience: Operating UAS can be stressful. HO must handle pressure and maintain composure during high-stress situations.

Teamwork and CRM: Collaboration and effective Crew Resource Management (CRM) among HOs, mission commanders, and ground control are pivotal for seamless operations.


Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) are crafted with specific functionalities tailored for various environments, resulting in variations in size and weight. For instance, the AeroVironment Vapor 55, classified as a medium-sized aircraft, weighs 55 pounds and spans just over six feet from blade to blade. This versatile helicopter boasts a flight endurance of 25 minutes. When configured for specialized missions like search and rescue (SAR), the operational setup necessitates three crew members. In SAR scenarios, where precise payload management is crucial, a dedicated human operator (HO) manages the aircraft's payload, while concurrently, the pilot in command (PIC) independently oversees the aircraft's flight controls. Therefore, for the safe and efficient operation of the Vapor 55, the engagement of three distinct human operators—an external pilot (EP), an internal pilot (IP), and a mission commander/payload operator—is essential.


The training duration for candidates would span six weeks, which is notably shorter than the extensive training undergone by crewed aircraft pilots. The rationale behind this period selection is the accessibility of modern technologies like virtual reality (VR), which offer less complex training environments compared to platforms like the MQ-9 Predator. Furthermore, the operation of UAS differs significantly from crewed aircraft, where physical fitness stands as a crucial requirement, necessitating pilots to clear a comprehensive medical examination.

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