What is the use of AOPA certificate? Comprehensive analysis of the value of a drone pilot license
In recent years, with the rapid development of drone technology, the drone pilot license (AOPA certificate) issued by AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of China) has become a hot topic in the industry. Both professional pilots and amateurs are full of questions about the use and importance of the AOPA certificate. This article will combine the hot content of the entire network in the past 10 days, analyze the role of the AOPA certificate in detail, and help you fully understand its value through structured data.
1. What is the AOPA certificate?
The AOPA certificate is a drone pilot qualification certificate issued by the China Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. It is divided into three levels: visual range pilot, beyond visual range pilot and instructor. It is currently one of the most authoritative drone operation qualifications in China, and is widely recognized especially in the field of commercial flight.
2. The core purpose of AOPA certificate
According to recent industry hot spots and policy requirements, the main uses of the AOPA certificate can be summarized as follows:
| Usage classification | Specific instructions |
|---|---|
| Legal flight qualification | According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China regulations, those engaged in commercial drone flying must hold an AOPA certificate or other equivalent license, otherwise they may face fines. |
| Career entry threshold | Employers in industries such as aerial photography, surveying and mapping, agriculture, forestry and plant protection generally require pilot certificates to work. |
| Insurance claim basis | Most insurance companies refuse to compensate for accidents caused by flying without a certificate, and having a certificate can protect your rights and interests. |
| Advantages of airspace application | Certificate holders have an easier time passing the airspace approval process, especially when flying in sensitive areas. |
3. Industry hot spots in 2023: new changes in AOPA certificates
Based on the hot discussions on the Internet in the past 10 days, the relevant developments of the AOPA certificate are as follows:
| hot events | Scope of influence |
|---|---|
| Civil Aviation Administration of China strengthens investigation and punishment of unlicensed flights | Special rectifications have been carried out in many places, with fines up to 100,000 yuan. |
| AOPA certification exam difficulty adjustment | With the addition of emergency operation subjects, the pass rate dropped by about 15%. |
| Drone delivery companies collectively hold certificates | Companies such as JD.com and SF Express require all pilots to hold a beyond visual line of sight driver’s license. |
4. Comparison between AOPA certificate and other licenses
The mainstream drone licenses currently on the market include UTC (DJI certification) and CAAC (directly issued by the Civil Aviation Administration). The following are the key differences:
| License type | issuing authority | Scope of application | Validity period |
|---|---|---|---|
| AOPA certificate | China Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association | Commonly used nationwide, recognized by mainstream commercial aviation | 2 years (requires periodic certification) |
| UTC | DJI Innovation Cooperation Agency | Specific industry applications (such as aerial photography, plant protection) | Effective for a long time |
| CAAC | Civil Aviation Administration of China | The legal effect is the highest, but the exam is difficult | 5 years |
5. How to obtain the AOPA certificate efficiently?
Based on recent student feedback and institutional data, the following steps are recommended:
1.Choose a formal institution: Look for the list of training institutions published on the AOPA official website;
2.Strengthen practical training: The 2023 exam will include new practical items such as obstacle avoidance;
3.Follow policy updates: For example, some provinces have required you to pass the theoretical examination before you can sign up for practical training.
Conclusion
In the context of increasingly strict regulations on drones, the AOPA certificate has changed from a bonus item to a necessary qualification. Whether it’s career advancement or compliance flying, holding a certificate brings significant advantages. It is recommended that practitioners pay close attention to policy changes and complete certification as early as possible.
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