Commercial Drone Training
We recognise that qualifications are only half the story in growing your own drone business. So we offer bespoke industry training alongside the CAA qualifications you need.
Unlike many providers, we guarantee a direct relationship with your instructor, with both in-person and video conference training options available, as well as 1-to-1 practical training.
We specialise in both media and survey/inspection training, delivered by subject matter trainers with 7+ years of industry experience.
Drone qualifications to suit your business
With the choice of CAA GVC and A2 Certificate of Competence (A2CofC) qualifications, we can provide you with the necessary foundations to fly drones legally and safely. The GVC has a validity of 5 years, which means if you were one of the first to take it, you will see your qualification expire during 2025. To remain legal you will need to renew your GVC at or before the expiry date. In partnership with Consortiq, we can provide a renewal course, regardless of your original training supplier.
Book courses on their own, or with industry specific practical training.
A2CofC – BASIC – £350+VAT
- drones up to 2kg
- lower risk activities
- half-day training
- online or face-to-face
A2CofC – BUSINESS READY – £500+VAT
- Basic package plus….
- One-day introductory flight training
- Half-day industry training
- Survey, inspection and media courses available
GVC – £899+VAT
- the industry-standard qualification
- drones up to 25kg
- comprehensive pre-course learning
- 2-day ground school
- flight assessment
- online instructor-led, or classroom
GVC RENEWAL – £375+VAT
- Refresher on UK Specific Category regulations
- Update on future UAS regulations (including SORA methodology which is being introduced during 2025)
- GVC theory exam
- Attend in person (South Wales) or online.
- Proof of flight hours required (or take a practical flight test at an additional cost)
Bespoke Drone Training
We offer customised training designed to meet your specific industry needs, including aerial surveying, photogrammetry, mapping, inspections, and cinematography.
Our bespoke training, led by industry experts, ensures you receive targeted instruction. Our aim is to equip you with the skills needed to operate efficiently, legally, and confidently.
What We Offer
1. Custom Drone Training
Our expert instructors will assess your needs and design a course that aligns with your industry, experience level, and drone platform. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build a strong foundation or an experienced operator refining advanced techniques, we tailor training to your objectives.
2. Photogrammetry & Mapping
Our photogrammetry and mapping training covers:
- Principles of photogrammetry and LiDAR – Learn how to capture and process high-quality aerial images.
- Survey planning – Optimise flight paths for efficient data capture.
- Software training – Understand leading photogrammetry platforms such as Agisoft Metashape, Terrascan and Virtual Surveyor
- Regulatory compliance – Ensure your operations meet UK drone laws and standards.
3. Advanced Operational Skills
For professionals looking to enhance their capabilities, we provide training in:
- Aerial inspections – Improve efficiency in structural, utility, and asset inspections.
- Cinematography & creative applications – Master cinematic drone movements and camera settings.
- BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) preparation – Understand the requirements and best practices for extended-range operations, including SORA methodology.
Flexible Training Options
We understand that schedules vary, which is why we offer both in-person and online training.
- In-Person Training – Delivered at Leaping Wing HQ in South Wales or at your site, ensuring real-world, hands-on learning.
- Online Training – Virtual sessions tailored to your needs, covering theoretical and software-based aspects of drone operations.
Who Should Enrol?
- Surveyors and GIS professionals
- Engineers and infrastructure inspectors
- Filmmakers and photographers
- Environmental and agricultural specialists
- Public safety and emergency response teams
- Anyone looking to maximise their drone’s capabilities
Contact us today to discuss your training requirements.
Trainee Chris
Church surveyor Gwyn who recently passed our inspection course
Who we have trained
We have already trained over 400 pilots from across the drone industry.
We provide in-house training for both the BBC Natural History Unit and South Wales Police, and regularly work with professionals from a wide range of disciplines including survey, media, archaeology, security, forensic science, property, ecology and more.
Trainee Helen Hobin filming with BBC Natural History Unit
400+ trainees
What our clients say
”Thank you so much for our training session last week – we both had an amazing time, and learnt so much.
Tim JeffreeBBC Natural History Unit
”It was a very good balance between the theory and practical elements to the course. The theory was explained very well and taken at a pace which everyone was happy with. Overall, a very enjoyable course gaining a lot of experience and knowledge from it.
PC Jack WilliamsSouth Wales Police
”Many thanks for organising this great training. Really inspiring to be part of such a thorough training experience.
Patrick EvansFilmmaker
Drone Training FAQs
Who is this for?
Our training is for any individual or company wanting to fly drones commercially. We train across a range of sectors including survey, media, construction and academic research.
Do I need my own drone?
Yes, although not for the ground school component of the training. By the time of your flight assessment you will need to own one and be used to flying it.
Do you run bespoke company courses?
Yes. Many of our courses are tailored to the needs of our clients across a range of industries. We also offer discounts for groups.
How much flying experience do I need?
No flying experience is needed for the GVC ground school. The recommended requirement for the flight assessment is 2 hours logged within the preceding 3 months, although more is desirable.
For the A2CofC you will be required to self-certify practical competence before your theory test. We will provide full details when you book.
Can the training be held at company premises?
Yes, we often travel to client premises and use their facilities to minimise lost time for staff members.
Can I complete the flight assessment before I have written my operations manual?
No. GVC students must complete their flight assessment using their own Operations Manual. However, this can be created during the course and we provide detailed assistance to make the process as efficient as possible.
Is the course industry specific?
We run both standard and bespoke courses. The ground school is the same, but we add client-specific practical training as required at additional cost.
How much time should I allow for preparation?
You will enjoy and benefit from the GVC ground school much more if you can allocate approximately 15 hours of time to pre-course preparation using our online learning portal. You’ll also need to allow time to increase your flying skills to meet the minimum assessment standard, and hopefully more.
Who is running the course?
Our CAA training is run in partnership with Consortiq. Our trainers are approved by Consortiq and Leaping Wing will be your point of contact for all phases of the course before, during and afterwards.