Pilot Certification

CU offers multiple pathways to become a certified university UAS pilot, each tailored to support different operational needs and objectives. Please explore the options below, and don鈥檛 hesitate to contact us with any questions or to discuss which path best aligns with your goals.

Certification Options

AC91-57C

AC 91-57C is an FAA advisory that permits limited use of UAS for educational and research purposes under recreational (hobbyist) guidelines. At CU, individuals operating university-owned UAS exclusively for educational or research activities may fly under the provisions of AC 91-57C, provided they complete the designated asynchronous Canvas training course.

COA certification provides comprehensive training for all CU-affiliated UAS operations, including those conducted for research and educational purposes. This training primarily focuses on the university鈥檚 blanket COA, which permits operations across most of the United States. Additionally, it prepares participants to operate under more specific, mission-based CU-owned COAs as needed.

Please note: This certification requires self-study and practice outside of the classroom. Plan to dedicate at least three additional hours to independent study.

 

9 hours of in-person ground instruction

Training Event

Two hours of one-on-one instruction with a certified instructor focused on UAS maneuvering and flight skills conducted in an outdoor setting.

Checkride

A one-on-one session with an instructor to evaluate your proficiency as a safe and compliant UAS pilot. Successfully passing this checkride is required to become a certified COA pilot.



 

Part 107 is an FAA-issued remote pilot certificate that individuals may obtain independently. While CU does not currently offer in-house Part 107 training, we recognize that some members of our community already hold this certification and wish to operate under its provisions. If you intend to fly under Part 107, please click the link below to request an Alaris Pro account and ensure you have thoroughly reviewed Chapter 5 of the Flight Operations Manual (FOM).

Flight Operations Manual (FOM)