Guidance on Operating Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) as per EASA Open and Specific Classifications - Outlining Duties and Resources for UAS Operators under our Knowledge Series.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has established comprehensive training requirements for Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) operators under Regulation (EU) 2019/947 and its Acceptable Means of Compliance (AMC3 UAS.SPEC.050(1)(d)). These regulations differentiate between Open Category and Specific Category operations, reflecting the varying risk levels and operational complexity.
Open Category Operations --------------------------
Open Category operations, which cover low-risk flights, require a basic remote pilot competency. Operators must complete an online training course and pass a basic theory exam to obtain the EU Drone Pilot Certificate for the applicable subcategory (A1/A3). For operations with drones over 500g (up to 2kg in the A2 subcategory), additional training and a more thorough theoretical examination are necessary, often including self-practical training, to obtain an A2 Certificate of Competency. Drones under 250g with a camera still require the operator to register and the pilot to have a basic understanding, but no formal license exam is needed.
Specific Category Operations -----------------------------
The Specific Category covers higher-risk operations that require a thorough risk assessment, usually via a process such as SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment). Remote pilot training for Specific Operations is more comprehensive and may be conducted internally by the operator if appropriately qualified, or externally via approved organizations. Training content includes procedures and mitigations derived from the risk assessment, technical and operational knowledge related to the unmanned aircraft involved, contingency procedures, situational awareness, and understanding operational area specifics and regulatory obligations.
Training for Specific Category pilots is proportionate to the operational complexity and risk level, often requiring a combination of theoretical instruction, practical training, and assessment by competent authority or authorized entities.
Summary Table -------------
| Aspect | Open Category | Specific Category | |--------------------------------|-----------------------------------|------------------------------------------------| | Risk Level | Low | Medium to High | | Training Type | Online theory exam, basic training | Comprehensive training per risk assessment | | Certification Required | EU Drone Pilot Certificate (A1/A3 or A2 Certificates) | Operator/remote pilot competence verified internally or externally| | Practical Training | Self-practical for A2 or above | Often formal practical training and assessments| | Scope of Training | Basic regulations, air safety | Detailed operational procedures, contingency, UAV technical knowledge| | Flight Termination Training | Not generally required | Typically required, especially for UAS with autonomous features| | Risk Assessment Integration | Not required | Mandatory (e.g., SORA framework) |
In conclusion, Open Category operators focus on obtaining basic competency through standardized online courses and exams suitable for low-risk operations, while Specific Category operators must undergo a risk-based tailored training program that ensures comprehensive operational knowledge and practical skills aligned with the complexity and risks of their missions. The EASA regulations provide a robust framework for ensuring the safety and efficiency of UAS operations in Europe.
- The Training requirements for drone operators in the European Union, as established by EASA, include online courses and exams for Open Category operations, and more comprehensive training for Specific Category operations.
- The Open Category operations cover low-risk flights, requiring operators to complete an online training course and pass a basic theory exam to obtain the EU Drone Pilot Certificate (A1/A3) or the A2 Certificate of Competency for drones over 500g.
- In contrast, the Specific Category operations, which involve higher-risk flights, require a thorough risk assessment, often via a process such as SORA, and more extensive training, which may be conducted internally or externally.
- Training for Specific Category pilots is proportionate to the operational complexity and risk level, often requiring a combination of theoretical instruction, practical training, and assessment by competent authorities or authorized entities.
- The European drone industry, with its focus on safety, has implemented regulations that differentiate between Open and Specific Category operations, reflecting varying risk levels and operational complexity.
- For businesses in the technology, education-and-self-development, sports, and finance sectors, understanding these regulations is crucial to ensure compliance, ensure the safety of their UAS operations, and maintain efficiency in their operations.
%20as%20per%20EASA%20Open%20and%20Specific%20Classifications%20-%20Outlining%20Duties%20and%20Resources%20for%20UAS%20Operators%20under%20our%20Knowledge%20Series.){kind=link}