MOS 96U course UAV Operator

[dalbert02]

I was curious if anyone had any thoughts on taking the MOS 96U course to be a certified UAV operator. Perhaps being certified would help in the COA process?
-dave

[CenTexFlyer]

At this point, any certification (including an MSCE) would help. For the moment the COA process requires that the pilot in command pass the written private pilot flight examination and maintain a current 3rd class flight medical. Any other certifications *may* be a consideration when applying for a COA. As I understand it, there are approximately 29 COA applications under review at this time (mine being one of them) and they will all be processed in the best time possible.

[Michael_UAV]

I was curious if anyone had any thoughts on taking the MOS 96U course to be a certified UAV operator. Perhaps being certified would help in the COA process?
-dave
I'm a former Instructor Pilot who taught the 96U course at Ft. Huachuca. I have since moved on to bigger and brighter things...

Going thru the course will accomplish 3 primary things:
1. You'll become a certified Shadow 200 (or Hunter) AVO/MPO
2. You'll be such a low rank that you won't need to worry about COAs
3. You'll position yourself to get a UAV job if you decide to get out after your 4 year contract ends.

So in short -- No. But you will go thru ground school and take the FAA private pilot written exam (last I was there, the schoolhouse (black tower) was a certified testing center).

[dalbert02]

Thank you both, I guess it is not worth the time...
-dave