The core value proposition of dock-based drone operations is eliminating the need for a pilot to travel to the site for each flight. However, the regulatory answer is nuanced:
No pilot on-site: The drone launches, flies its mission, captures data, and returns to the dock autonomously. No licensed pilot needs to be physically present at the site during operations.
Remote Pilot-in-Command (RPIC) required: Under the EASA Specific Category framework, a qualified RPIC must be available to monitor operations and intervene if necessary. This RPIC can be located remotely — potentially monitoring multiple dock sites simultaneously from a centralised operations centre.
What the RPIC does:
- Authorises each mission before launch (can be automated with pre-approved flight plans)
- Monitors weather conditions and airspace status
- Has the ability to command an emergency landing or return-to-dock
- Reviews mission completion status
THE FUTURE 3D manages the RPIC requirement as part of our dock deployment service. Our operations team provides remote monitoring and intervention capability so that your team does not need to employ or train drone pilots.
In Open Category operations (under 25 kg, visual line of sight, limited altitude), a remote pilot must maintain visual contact. Dock-based BVLOS flights therefore require Specific Category authorisation, which THE FUTURE 3D manages through the SORA process.