Aviation students at Ozarka College will soon have the opportunity to receive training for the operation of small, unmanned aircraft systems, also known as drones. Training will also be available to members of the community interested in legally flying their drones for civil use.

With the addition of this innovative technology, students in Ozarka's Aviation - Professional Pilot degree program will have the opportunity to earn a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as part of the degree program. They will also have an opportunity to complete a lab course focused on drone operations.

Students in the program are excited about obtaining their drone certification. Alex Pannell exclaimed, "I've always wanted to fly a drone. " The new FAA regulation on unmanned aircraft makes it is easier for students to train for a drone pilot certificate while working on their pilot certificate. According to Andrew Finne, Ozarka College flight instructor, "The addition of this equipment will broaden the experience for our students and give them the opportunity to explore different job avenues that their degree can take them. "  

The FAA issued 14 CFR Part 107 regarding sUAS on August 29, 2016. This coursework allows students to more affordably take the next step in training after achieving their private pilot certificate. For more information about drone certification or flight training at Ozarka College, please call Nick at 870.368.7926.