Guidelines and Best Practices for FAA Certificate of Authorization Applications for Small Unmanned Aircraft

摘要

This paper presents an overview and best practices for constructing an application to obtain a Certificate of Authorization (COA) from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration for conducting flight operations using unmanned aircraft. In particular, the best practices are drawn from 65 successful COA applications with emphasis on the process for public institutions. These 65 COA applications include 59 different COA areas spanning approximately 27,000 square miles and four states. Details are given about area selection, airworthiness requirements, lost communications and emergency procedures, and ground crew proficiency requirements. Information is also given about activating COA areas, using a notice to airmen, and the correct procedures for reporting incidents/accidents, monthly activity, and lost communications events to the FAA.