New ASTM Drone Pilot Training Standard Approved

ASTM International has approved a new standard establishing minimum training requirements for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS/drone) operators. The new standard, which will be published as F3379, addresses general, field and search-specific knowledge and skills for UAS pilots operating from remote locations. According to ASTM, it was designed to support public safety agencies fielding UAS teams.

“While other ASTM standards address the general and overarching aspects of UAS, the new standard focuses on the specific challenges for public safety remote pilots within their operational environment,” said Praxis Aerospace Concepts International CEO and ASTM International member Jonathan Daniels.

ASTM International says the standard was developed by its UAS committee (F38) with contributions from the homeland security applications committee (E54) and a joint working group on UAS public safety convened by ASTM and the National Fire Protection Association (AC383). The first version focuses on U.S. requirements with plans to “expand future editions to include international requirements.”