Sub-category A2 drone flying possible until 31 January 2022 without additional theory exam

The exemption will be extended from the previously issued deadline of 31 December 2021. The technical system developed for completing the A2 examination was implemented in late November. However, the geographical coverage of the locations where the exam may be completed is not on a desirable level as of yet, which is why it was decided to extend the validity of the exemption. The purpose of the extension was to ensure that operators have a better chance to complete the exam before the requirement enters into force and to also observe the impact of the restrictions concerning gatherings and movement in place to restrict the spread of COVID-19.

To fly drones in sub-category A2, a remote pilot must, however, have a valid certificate granted for the completion of the A1 or A3 online theoretical knowledge examination and have completed the self-practical training required for participating in the A2 examination. 

The exemption only applies to flying drones in Finland. 

Certificate of competency obtained from the A2 examination

After completion of the additional theoretical knowledge examination, the remote pilot will obtain a certificate of competency which allows them to operate an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) in the open A2 category, which means that they are allowed to operate a max. 4 kg drone with a C2 class marking in a populated area at a safe distance from people.

During the transition period until 1 January 2023, remote pilots are allowed to operate a max. 2 kg drone in densely populated areas at a distance of 50 metres from other people after completion of the A2 additional theoretical knowledge examination. Starting from 1 January 2024 after the transition period, a drone weighing more than 250 g without a C1–C6 marking can be flown in accordance with the rules of category A3, however.

The certificate of competency obtained from the A2 examination is valid for five years.

You can find the contact details for parties providing further information on the theme as well as examinations on the ‘Additional theoretical knowledge examination in subcategory A2’ page .