For many organizations navigating the EASA Specific Category, achieving an operational authorization feels like crossing the finish line. Months of hard work go into developing a SORA, an Operations Manual (OM), and all the required documentation. Once the competent authority grants approval, it's tempting to put those documents on the shelf and focus solely on flying.

But in reality, approval is just the beginning.

An operational authorization is not a static checkbox. It's a living agreement between you and the regulator—one that should evolve as your operations grow, technologies develop, and the regulatory landscape changes.

Operations Change. Your Authorization Should Too.

Your first operational authorization might cover a simple VLOS or BVLOS scenario in a low-risk area. But what happens when you want to:

• Extend to new locations or countries?

• Add new aircraft types or sensor payloads?

• Integrate drone-in-a-box systems for automated operations?

• Work with new partners or subcontractors?

Each of these changes likely affects your Concept of Operations (ConOps), risk assessment, flight procedures, and emergency protocols. And that means your OM, SORA, and associated documentation must be reviewed and updated—often with re-approval required.

Regulations Evolve. So Should Your Documentation.

The regulatory landscape in Europe is shifting rapidly. We’ve seen the introduction of SORA 2.5, PDRA templates, updates on U-space implementation, and more detailed guidance on overflight of people and BVLOS operations.

If your documentation still follows outdated frameworks or omits key updates, you may run into compliance issues during audits, spot checks, or when requesting future authorizations.

A Living Process = A Scalable Operation

By treating your operational authorization as a living process, you unlock greater agility:

• You can proactively align with new requirements instead of playing catch-up.

• You reduce friction when scaling across geographies, platforms, and mission types.

• You strengthen internal accountability and reduce the risk of non-compliance.

But keeping everything up-to-date takes effort. That’s where AirHub comes in.

How AirHub Supports Ongoing Compliance

Our Consultancy team helps you maintain alignment between your operations and your regulatory framework. We support:

• Periodic reviews of your SORA and OM in light of operational or regulatory changes

• Preparing and submitting updates to competent authorities

• Translating technical updates (e.g., new aircraft or automation features) into compliance-ready documentation

Our Software platform makes this process easier:

• Update and store your OM, checklists, and ConOps centrally

• Link operational procedures directly to your live flight operations

• Maintain pilot, aircraft, and mission records for audits and renewals

• Monitor operational parameters to ensure you stay within your approved limits

Whether you're scaling a public safety program, building automated infrastructure inspections, or operating across borders, treating your authorization as a living process will keep you ahead of the curve—and regulators.

Ready to make your compliance workflow smarter and more sustainable? Let’s talk.