This is the fundamental small UAS course for individuals wanting to become qualified to operate small UAS for the Department of the Interior (DOI)/US Department of Agriculture's Forest Service (USDA-FS). A-450 will utilize small UAS aircraft (less than 55lbs) to provide the basic academic and flight training necessary to conduct missions as Remote Pilot-in-Command (RPIC) for DOI/FS.

Candidates must be nominated by National UAS Program Managers or designee.

Students should meet the prerequisite requirements prior to attending A-450. Some required IAT courses may not be available prior to A-450 training selection, but UAS pilots must complete all IAT training requirements within 6 months of A-450 selection.

Note: For further information, contact your DOI National Aviation Manager or USFS Regional UAS Specialist for guidance regarding how to begin a UAS program.

This course provides mandatory training required for all DOI managers and supervisors who are responsible for administering oversight of programs that utilize aviation personnel and resources, both manned and unmanned (UAS/Unmanned Aircraft Systems), to accomplish missions and flight activities.

Note: This course meets the DOI requirements of 352 DM (1.5 B)