CAA Drone Theory Practice Test

Which of the following is NOT a category of operations when flying a drone?

1. Open A1

2. Open A3

3. Controlled

4. Open A2

The correct answer is: Controlled

When considering categories of operations for drone flying, it is essential to understand that regulatory frameworks, such as those established by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), typically define specific categories for drone operations based on factors such as the level of risk, the environment in which the drone will be operating, and the specific constraints placed upon the pilot. The categories known as Open A1, Open A2, and Open A3 refer to specific operational categories within the Open category of drone operations. Open A1 encompasses operations over people who are not involved in the flight, Open A2 permits flying close to people with some restrictions, and Open A3 refers to flying in areas where there are no people. Each of these categories has distinct rules and requirements aimed at ensuring safety during drone operations in different environments. In contrast, the term "Controlled" does not correspond to a recognized category of operations in the same sense. Instead, it might refer to permission-based operations that require prior authorization, such as flying in controlled airspace or conducting commercial operations under specific regulatory guidelines, which are not categorized under the Open framework defined by the CAA. Thus, identifying "Controlled" as an incorrect option highlights its distinction from the clearly defined categories within the Open operational framework.