Open Category A1/A3 in Detail

Introduction: Why This Topic Matters

Understanding the Open Category regulations is crucial for drone pilots operating under the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) framework. The Open Category is specifically designed for low-risk operations, providing a streamlined way to fly drones without the need for complex authorizations. Within the Open Category, the subcategories A1 and A3 define operational limitations, ensuring safe drone usage over and away from people. This lesson will provide a detailed breakdown of the A1 and A3 subcategories, drone class marks, transitional provisions for legacy drones, and practical decision-making scenarios. By the end of this lesson, you’ll have the knowledge needed to confidently operate your drone within these subcategories while fully complying with EASA regulations.

A1 Subcategory: Flying Over People

The A1 subcategory allows drones to fly over people, but there are strict conditions to ensure safety. This subcategory is ideal for lightweight drones and operations in urban or populated areas.

Key Requirements for A1 Operations:

• No flying over assemblies of people (e.g., crowds at events or gatherings) (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4.1(a)).
• Drone class marks: Only drones classified as C0 or C1 are permitted for A1 operations.
  • C0 drones: Weigh less than 250g, including legacy drones without class marks.
  • C1 drones: Weigh up to 900g and must include a CE class mark and noise-reduction features.
• Minimum training: Remote pilots must complete an online training course and pass the online competency test for C1 drones (Reg 2019/947 Art. 8.2).

Practical Scenario: Flying a C1 Drone Over a Park

Imagine you’re flying a C1 drone equipped with a CE mark over a park with scattered pedestrians. You must ensure:

1. The drone does not fly over large gatherings or crowds.
2. You maintain a direct visual line of sight (VLOS).
3. You’ve completed the required online training for C1 drones.

By adhering to these rules, you can safely operate in compliance with the A1 subcategory.

A3 Subcategory: Flying Far from People

The A3 subcategory is designed for operations far from people, making it suitable for rural areas or open fields. This subcategory prioritizes minimizing risk to uninvolved persons.

Key Requirements for A3 Operations:

• Maintain a safe distance: Operations must occur at least 150 meters away from residential, industrial, recreational, and commercial areas (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4.1(c)).
• Avoid flying near uninvolved persons: Ensure the area is sparsely populated or unpopulated.
• Drone class marks: Drones classified as C2, C3, or C4 are permitted.
  • C2 drones: Weigh up to 4kg, equipped with remote identification and geo-awareness systems.
  • C3 drones: Weigh up to 25kg and are designed for safe operations in open spaces.
  • C4 drones: Weigh up to 25kg but lack automated flight features.

Practical Scenario: Surveying a Field with a C3 Drone

You’re conducting a survey with a C3 drone in a rural area. To comply with A3 rules:

1. Select a location at least 150 meters away from nearby villages or buildings.
2. Confirm the area is clear of uninvolved persons before takeoff.
3. Use your drone’s geo-awareness system to ensure safe operation.

By following these steps, you ensure compliance with A3 requirements while minimizing risks.

Drone Class Marks: C0, C1, C3, C4

EASA has introduced standardized drone class marks to clearly define which drones can be used in specific subcategories. These class marks ensure drones meet design and operational safety standards.

Overview of Drone Class Marks:

1. C0:
   • Weight: <250g
   • No remote identification or geo-awareness required.
   • Suitable for A1 operations.
2. C1:
   • Weight: <900g
   • Includes remote identification and low-noise features.
   • Requires online pilot training.
   • Suitable for A1 operations.
3. C3:
   • Weight: <25kg
   • Designed for safe operations in open spaces.
   • Suitable for A3 operations.
4. C4:
   • Weight: <25kg
   • Lacks automated flight features.
   • Suitable for A3 operations.

Transitional Provisions for Legacy Drones

Until January 1, 2026, EASA allows the use of legacy drones (drones without CE class marks) under transitional provisions. These rules provide flexibility for operators who own older drones.

Key Points:

• Legacy drones under 250g: May operate in the A1 subcategory without restrictions.
• Legacy drones over 250g: Must operate in the A3 subcategory until they are replaced with drones that meet class mark requirements.
• After 2026, all drones in the Open Category must comply with CE class mark standards (Reg 2019/947 Art. 20).

Practical Scenarios and Decision Making

Scenario 1: Choosing the Right Subcategory

You own a drone with a C1 class mark and want to capture footage of a city square. Should you operate in the A1 or A3 subcategory?

• Answer: You should operate under A1 regulations, as your drone is permitted to fly over people (but not assemblies of people).

Scenario 2: Flying a Legacy Drone

You own a legacy drone weighing 1kg and want to film an open field. Can you operate under A1 or A3?

• Answer: You must operate under A3 regulations, as legacy drones over 250g are restricted to this subcategory until 2026.

Key Takeaways

• The A1 subcategory allows flying over people but prohibits flying over crowds. Only C0 and C1 drones are permitted.
• The A3 subcategory requires operations far from people and populated areas, with drones classified as C2, C3, or C4.
• Drone class marks (C0, C1, C3, C4) define which drones can be used in specific subcategories based on weight and features.
• Transitional provisions allow legacy drones to operate under A1 and A3 subcategories until January 1, 2026.
• Making informed decisions about subcategories and drone compliance ensures safe and legal operations.

By mastering these concepts, you’re well-equipped to operate your drone safely and legally within the Open Category framework.