Introduction to Specific Category: Certification

Drone operations in Europe are regulated under the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) framework, which aims to ensure safety, security, and compliance in the airspace. While many drone pilots operate under the Open Category due to its simplicity and accessibility, there are scenarios where the Open Category is not sufficient to cover the operational risks or requirements. This is where the Specific Category comes into play. Understanding the Specific Category is crucial for pilots conducting complex or higher-risk operations, as it provides a structured pathway to operate safely while adhering to EASA regulations.

This lesson covers the certification process and key components of the Specific Category, including Standard Scenarios (STS), Pre-Defined Risk Assessments (PDRA), and Specific Operations Risk Assessments (SORA). By the end of this lesson, you'll be equipped with the foundational knowledge to explore advanced operations within the EASA framework.

When the Open Category is Not Enough

The Open Category is designed for low-risk operations. It allows drone pilots to conduct operations without prior authorization, provided they meet requirements such as weight limits, maximum flight heights, and maintaining Visual Line of Sight (VLOS). However, there are situations where the Open Category falls short:

• Higher Risk Operations: Flying beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), near people, or in areas with high air traffic often exceeds the safety thresholds of the Open Category.
• Complex Missions: Operations involving drones with unique payloads, specialized tasks, or in controlled airspace require a more detailed risk assessment.
• Custom Scenarios: Unique operational needs that are not covered by the predefined rules of the Open Category necessitate additional oversight.

When these factors come into play, drone pilots must transition to the Specific Category, which offers a tailored approach to managing operational risks.

Overview of the Specific Category

The Specific Category is designed to accommodate drone operations that exceed the limitations of the Open Category. It requires operators to conduct a risk assessment and, in many cases, obtain operational authorization from the relevant aviation authority. Key features of the Specific Category include:

• Operational Authorization: Pilots must submit a detailed application to the competent authority, such as their national aviation authority, outlining the mission, risks, and mitigation measures (Reg 2019/947 Art. 12).
• Risk-Based Approach: Operations are assessed based on their risk level, ensuring that safety measures are proportionate to the complexity of the mission.
• Flexibility: The Specific Category allows for tailored solutions, making it ideal for commercial and industrial applications.

Standard Scenarios (STS)

To simplify the process of obtaining authorization, EASA has introduced Standard Scenarios (STS). These are predefined operational templates that cover specific types of drone missions with established risk mitigation measures. Using an STS can save time and effort for drone pilots.

Key Features of Standard Scenarios:

• Predefined Parameters: STS include detailed conditions such as flight altitude, airspace type, and operational procedures. For example:
  • STS-01: Operations in VLOS at a maximum height of 120m over controlled ground areas (Reg 2020/639).
  • STS-02: BVLOS operations with a controlled ground area and use of a tether or other containment measures.
• Declaration-Based Authorization: Pilots using an STS can declare their compliance to the competent authority instead of undergoing a full application process.
• Simplified Documentation: By adhering to the STS requirements, pilots can streamline their operational planning and authorization.

Pre-Defined Risk Assessment (PDRA)

For operations that do not fit into an STS but still follow common patterns, EASA has developed Pre-Defined Risk Assessments (PDRA). These are standardized templates that outline the required safety and mitigation measures for specific types of operations.

How PDRAs Work:

• Operational Templates: PDRAs provide risk mitigation strategies for scenarios such as BVLOS flights, flights near populated areas, or operations using large drones.
• Authorization Requirement: Unlike STS, PDRA-based operations require submission to the aviation authority for approval.
• Examples:
  • PDRA-G02 covers BVLOS operations with drones equipped with a direct remote identification system.
  • PDRA-G03 includes operations near critical infrastructure with enhanced geofencing systems.

Using a PDRA simplifies the risk assessment process while ensuring compliance with EASA standards.

Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA)

For operations that fall outside STS or PDRA templates, drone pilots must conduct a Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA). This is a detailed, custom risk assessment tailored to the unique aspects of the operation.

SORA Process:

1. Operation Description: Outline the details of the mission, including location, drone specifications, and operational procedures.
2. Risk Identification: Identify potential risks to people, property, and other airspace users.
3. Mitigation Strategies: Develop measures to reduce risks, such as using redundant systems, geofencing, or flight restrictions.
4. Risk Level Determination: Use SORA tools to calculate the overall risk level of the operation.
5. Submission for Approval: Submit the SORA documentation to the competent authority for review and authorization.

SORA is essential for complex operations such as drone deliveries, inspections in densely populated areas, or flights over critical infrastructure. It ensures a thorough evaluation of risks and establishes a clear framework for safe operation.

Practical Examples and Scenarios

Example 1: Industrial Inspection Beyond VLOS

A drone operator needs to inspect pipelines in a remote area using a BVLOS drone. This operation exceeds the Open Category limitations. The operator uses PDRA-G02 and equips the drone with a remote identification system and a failsafe procedure. The aviation authority reviews the PDRA and approves the operation.

Example 2: Drone Delivery in Urban Areas

A company plans to deliver medical supplies using drones in a city. This operation requires a SORA due to its complexity and higher risks. The operator conducts a detailed risk assessment, implements enhanced geofencing, and submits the SORA documentation for approval.

Key Takeaways

• The Specific Category is essential for operations that exceed the limitations of the Open Category, such as BVLOS flights or missions in controlled airspace.
• Standard Scenarios (STS) provide predefined templates for common operations, simplifying the authorization process.
• Pre-Defined Risk Assessments (PDRA) offer standardized risk mitigation strategies for specific types of operations.
• Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) is a detailed, custom risk assessment required for unique or high-risk missions.
• Always refer to relevant EASA regulations, such as Reg 2019/947, when planning operations in the Specific Category.

By understanding and applying the principles outlined in this lesson, you can expand your capabilities as a drone pilot while ensuring compliance with EASA regulations. In the next lesson, we’ll explore how to prepare and submit applications for operational authorization in the Specific Category.