A3 self-practical training requirement
A3 requires self-declared practical skill acquisition.
Contents
Format
The A3 subcategory permits flying C4-class aircraft (MTOM up to 25 kg) or legacy aircraft far from populated areas (≥150 m from residential, commercial and industrial zones). The A1/A3 online competency test is required, and A3 additionally requires a self-declared practical skills acquisition.
Unlike the A2 exam, A3 practical skills are self-acquired — no training organisation visit is required. The pilot self-declares that they have sufficient practical competency.
Preparation
The A3 theory (part of the A1/A3 test) requires studying the same EASA topics: weather conditions, airspace classification, human factors and technical requirements.
The self-declaration of practical skills means the pilot must have real flight experience with a C4 or legacy aircraft. Recommendation: fly regularly before making the declaration and document your flight history.
Exam tip
Mistakes
A common mistake is thinking A3 is a 'higher' category than A1/A2 requiring more formal theory. In fact A3 theory is included in the same A1/A3 test — the difference is in the practical declaration and aircraft class.
Another mistake is not knowing that A3 requires ≥150 m from assemblies of people and residential zones. This severely restricts possible flight locations in urban or suburban environments.
Mocks
A2STS A1/A3 mock exams include A3 subcategory questions. You can study targeted A3-specific topics by filtering the question bank.
A3 pilots operate large legacy aircraft or C4 class — practical flight experience is more important in this category than in most others. The exam tests it through theoretical scenarios.
Frequently asked questions
- Does the A3 practical declaration require an instructor?
- No — the A3 practical declaration is self-made. The pilot confirms their own competency. However, flying with an experienced pilot before the first declaration is recommended.
- What is the difference in difficulty between A2 and A3?
- A2 requires a separate TKA theoretical exam; A3 requires a self-declaration. A2 permits flying closer to people; A3 only far from populated zones. Technical complexity differs by aircraft class.
Authority & sources
A2STS Editorial · Reviewed by: EASA UAS syllabus aligned