USAIG has introduced Performance Vector Unmanned, created specifically for policyholders who insure unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), also known as remotely piloted aircraft and drones.
The program serves to keep safety at the forefront, which is especially critical considering that UAS outnumber registered manned aircraft, company officials note.
The program’s predecessor, Performance Vector, was established in 2011 to provide safety-supportive benefits to policyholders who insure turbine-powered manned aircraft.
Performance Vector Unmanned integrates products and services specific to UAS operational safety and is made broadly available to holders of UAS policies.
“This new initiative addresses a vital need by including one remote pilot’s ground school with any UAS policy,” says Paul Ratté, USAIG’s director of aviation safety programs. “Another plus: Discounted rates are available for additional trainees.”
The program’s initial offering is the Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) Ground School Course, provided online by ARGUS Unmanned. The course sets a foundation of required aeronautical knowledge for remote pilots of UAS weighing less than 55 pounds, according to officials.
The curriculum addresses all pertinent aeronautical knowledge factors outlined by the FAA for the Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) examination.
It augments those with safety concepts and practices to develop well-informed and responsible remote pilots, USAIG officials noted.
Students who successfully complete the course receive a certificate of completion from ARGUS Unmanned. This prepares them to attain or recurrently sustain Remote Pilot-in-Command certification.
The course teaches what human factors contribute to errors and violations and how they may cause UAS accidents. It also teaches the ethical and legal requirements of being a responsible remote pilot and explores a professional career in unmanned aviation.