Jan 20, 2025
AirHub Knowledge Series: Categories of Drone Operations
As the professional and enterprise drone industry continues to evolve, understanding the framework of regulations becomes critical. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has established detailed rules for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations under Regulation 2019/947, ensuring safety and harmonization across Member States. Building on the foundational terminology introduced in our previous blog, this article delves deeper into the categories of drone operations. These classifications are essential for both seasoned operators and newcomers seeking to navigate regulatory requirements effectively. This blog explores the three distinct categories of UAS operations: Open, Specific, and Certified, as outlined in Articles 3 to 10 of the regulation, while continuing our efforts to develop a comprehensive knowledge hub for professional drone users.
Overview of UAS Operation Categories
EASA regulations classify UAS operations into three categories based on the associated risk level:
Open Category: Low-risk operations.
Specific Category: Medium-risk operations requiring risk assessment and authorization.
Certified Category: High-risk operations akin to manned aviation.
Each category includes specific rules, procedures, and limitations to ensure safety.
The Open Category
The Open Category covers operations presenting minimal risks. These operations are subject to simple rules and do not require prior authorization or declarations to the competent authority.
Key features:
Operations are divided into three subcategories:
A1: Flying over people but not over crowds.
A2: Flying close to people, requiring additional remote pilot competency.
A3: Flying far from people and buildings.
The maximum take-off mass (MTOM) is limited to 25 kg.
Operations must be conducted within the Visual Line of Sight (VLOS).
Flights are restricted to a maximum altitude of 120 meters above ground level.
Remote pilot requirements:
Complete online training and pass an examination for certain subcategories (e.g., A2).
Comply with the manufacturer’s instructions and operational limitations.
Key exclusions:
No operations over assemblies of people.
No transport of dangerous goods or dropping of materials that could pose risks.
The Specific Category
The Specific Category includes operations presenting a higher level of risk than the Open Category. Operators must conduct a risk assessment and obtain operational authorization from the competent authority.
Key features:
Requires a Standard Scenario (STS) or compliance with a Pre-Defined Risk Assessment (PDRA) when applicable. An STS provides predefined mitigation measures for common operations, while a PDRA offers a structured risk assessment for less common, but still specific, operations.
The SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) framework provides an alternative to using a Standard Scenario (STS) or Pre-Defined Risk Assessment (PDRA). It allows operators to develop tailored risk mitigations that align with the unique characteristics of their operations, ensuring safety and compliance.
Allows for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations with appropriate mitigations. This category also permits operations above 120 meters AGL, use of drones with an MTOM exceeding 25 kg, and operations involving heavier drones over populated areas, provided the necessary safety measures are in place.
Authorization process:
Define your Concept of Operations (ConOps) or check if your ConOps can be covered by a Standard Scenario (STS) or Pre-Defined Risk Assessment (PDRA).
Apply the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) if your ConOps is not covered by an STS or PDRA. Each SORA results in a Specific Assurance and Integrity Level (SAIL).
Ensure compliance with the Operational Safety Objectives (OSOs) of your STS/PDRA/SORA and other requirements, including procedures in the Operations Manual, remote pilot training requirements, and technical specifications for the UAS, external systems, and external services.
The Certified Category
The Certified Category applies to high-risk operations, comparable to manned aviation. These operations require:
Certification of the UAS.
Licensing of the remote pilot.
Certification of the operator.
Key features:
Applicable to operations involving large drones, passenger transport, or hazardous materials.
UAS must meet stringent airworthiness standards under Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945.
Operations require coordination with air traffic management and compliance with manned aviation rules.
Examples:
Transporting people or goods in urban environments.
Conducting operations in controlled airspace alongside manned aircraft.
Rules and Procedures for UAS Operations
Across all categories, certain foundational rules apply:
Competency of remote pilots: Remote pilots must demonstrate knowledge and skills commensurate with the category of operation. For Specific and Certified categories, this often includes advanced training and certification.
Minimum age for remote pilots: Remote pilots must meet the minimum age requirements set by Member States, typically 16 years for the Open Category and higher for Specific and Certified Categories.
Airworthiness requirements: Certified operations must meet comprehensive airworthiness criteria, ensuring the UAS can safely perform its intended function.
UAS operator requirements: UAS operators must ensure the right governance and organization of their drone operations to guarantee safety and compliance. This includes maintaining an Operations Manual (OM) that outlines procedures and protocols for safe operation. For operators holding a Light UAS Operator Certificate (LUC), additional responsibilities include implementing a Safety Management System (SMS) to manage operational risks effectively. Operators are also required to ensure that personnel are properly trained, that technical and operational standards are met, and that all external systems and services used in operations adhere to regulatory requirements.
Geographical zones: Competent authorities may establish UAS geographical zones to restrict, facilitate, or exclude operations in certain areas based on safety, privacy, or environmental considerations. UAS operators must also comply with requirements for manned aircraft airspaces, such as coordinating with Air Traffic Control (ATC) where applicable.
Conclusion
Understanding the categories of UAS operations is fundamental for ensuring compliance and safety. The framework established by EASA Regulation 2019/947 provides clarity and structure, enabling operators to align their activities with the appropriate risk level and operational requirements.
At AirHub Consultancy, we specialize in guiding operators through the regulatory maze. Our team provides tailored support for operational risk assessments, authorization processes, and compliance with EASA regulations. Contact us to learn how we can help you achieve safe and compliant UAS operations.