What is required for public or civil UAVs weighing over 55 lbs operating in civil airspace?

For public or civil UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) weighing over 55 lbs operating in civil airspace, a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) is required. A COA is essentially a formal approval from the relevant aviation authority that allows the operation of UAVs in a specified airspace under certain conditions. This requirement ensures that operations are conducted safely and in accordance with regulations designed to mitigate risks to other air traffic and to the general public.

The necessity of a COA helps regulatory bodies maintain oversight of UAV operations, especially those that could potentially pose greater risks due to size and weight. By having a COA in place, operators must adhere to specific operating guidelines, which include factors such as altitude restrictions, operational limits, and reporting requirements.

While special pilot training, insurance coverage, or local government approval may be beneficial or necessary for different aspects of UAV operation, they do not specifically satisfy the regulatory requirement for UAVs over 55 lbs operating in civil airspace as effectively as a COA does.