Glossary

Basic Proficiency Evaluation for Remote Pilots (BPERP). A standardized test for UAS pilots to assess their basic flight proficiency by completing a series of maneuvers within a specified time limit.

crew resource management (CRM). The practice of effectively utilizing all available crew members to ensure clear communication, role clarity, and teamwork during the UAS mission.

drone. A colloquial term to describe an unmanned aerial vehicle.

fail-safe mode. A preprogrammed response the UAS follows if communication with the controller is lost. This might include hovering, returning to home, or landing safely.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The U.S. governmental body responsible for regulating all aspects of civil aviation, including the regulation of UAS operations.

flight logbook. A record where all UAS missions are documented, including details such as flight date, location, flight duration, weather conditions, and any maintenance performed.

geofencing. A virtual boundary set by the UAS manufacturer or operator to restrict or prevent the UAS from entering specific areas, often for safety or regulatory reasons.

Global Navigation Satellite System/Global Positioning System (GNSS/GPS). A satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information in all weather conditions. GNSS/GPS is used by UAS for accurate position and altitude data.

inertial measurement unit (IMU). A device commonly used in UASs that measures and reports the aircraftʼs specific force, angular rate, and sometimes the magnetic field surrounding the drone. An IMU typically consists of accelerometers and gyroscopes to provide data on the aircraftʼs movement and orientation in space

Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC). An FAA system that provides drone pilots with real-time authorization to fly in controlled airspace under 400 feet.

Meteorological Aerodrome Report (METAR). A routine aviation weather report providing hourly updates on the weather conditions at an airport, including wind speed, visibility, and cloud cover.

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). A U.S. agency that develops measurement standards and testing protocols, including UAS proficiency evaluation tests.

NIST Open Test Lane. Standardized testing environment developed by NIST for evaluating multirotor UASs.

Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). A notice issued to alert pilots of potential hazards along a flight route or at a specific location that could affect the safety of the flight.

obstacle avoidance. A feature that uses sensors to detect obstacles in the UASʼs flight path and adjust the aircraftʼs course to avoid collisions.

Pilot Readiness and Operational Proficiency Standardized Test (PROPS Test). A four-part assessment of an RPICʼs flight proficiency as defined by ASTM F3266.

pre-mission checklist. A standard operating procedure that the RPIC follows before beginning a flight to ensure all equipment is operational, the crew is briefed, and all safety protocols are in place.

proctor. The person overseeing the examination or evaluation process, ensuring that all procedures are followed correctly.

remote pilot in command (RPIC). The person responsible for overseeing and conducting the UAS mission, ensuring all safety measures, mission planning, and execution are followed according to regulations.

return to home (RTH). An automated function that allows a UAS to return to its takeoff location when it loses signal with the controller or when the pilot activates the feature.

telemetry. Data transmitted from the UAS to the pilot or controller that provides real-time information such as altitude, speed, battery life, and signal strength.

temporary flight restriction (TFR). A temporary restriction of flight operations in a specific area due to safety or security concerns, often associated with events or emergency situations.

Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). A system that includes the unmanned aircraft (drone) and all associated components, such as the controller, communication systems, and any payload.

visual line of sight (VLOS). A regulatory requirement for drone pilots to maintain direct visual contact with the UAS during the flight, ensuring safe and controlled operation.

waypoint navigation. A method of autonomous flight in which the UAS follows a preprogrammed flight path made up of a series of waypoints (geographical coordinates).