A2 vs A1/A3

A1/A3 — limits and constraints

A1/A3 with a legacy or C1 aircraft allows Open-category flight but with clear distance requirements from uninvolved persons. Legacy C3 aircraft must stay at least 150 m from residential, commercial and industrial areas.

In urban settings A1/A3 is often too restrictive: commercial property photography or event filming require proximity that A1/A3 with larger aircraft cannot provide. This is where A2 becomes essential.

What A2 adds

A2 with a C2 aircraft: 30 m standard distance from uninvolved persons, 5 m in Low-Speed Mode. Practically, this enables commercial work in all environments where A1/A3 is too restrictive.

A2 opens doors: city-centre real-estate filming, industrial inspections near people, journalistic photography. Employers and clients frequently specify A2 even when A1/A3 might technically suffice.

Cost and time investment

A2 additionally requires: a theoretical exam at TKA (30 min, 30 questions), a self-declaration of practical skill and extra preparation — approximately 20–40 hours of study.

Financially: NAA exam fee plus a preparation platform. Compare this against lost revenue from projects requiring A2 — the investment typically pays back within 1–2 months of commercial work.

When A2 is the right choice

A2 is worth it if: 1) you plan commercial flights in cities or near people, 2) clients specify A2, 3) you operate a C2-class aircraft, 4) you are building a professional drone pilot career.

A1/A3 is sufficient if you fly away from people, recreationally or in very specific remote areas. If you decide to go for A2, the A2STS platform will prepare you efficiently.

Frequently asked questions

Is the A2 exam harder than A1/A3?

A2 is more demanding due to additional topics: meteorology, human factors and aircraft performance. With proper preparation, however, the difficulty is manageable.

Can I fly a C2 aircraft without A2?

With A1/A3 you can use C2 aircraft in A3 subcategory (far from people). A2 gives you the right to fly a C2 at 30 m from uninvolved persons.