Do you need authorization for Specific Category operations? Whether BVLOS, flight over populated areas, controlled airspace, or special operations, SORA 2.5 is the mandatory regulatory methodology in Europe since 2024.
Written for professional operators, certifiers, engineers, and regulators, this definitive guide teaches you how to apply SORA 2.5 in real EASA markets: Spain (AESA), France (DGAC), Germany (LBA), and Italy (ENAC).
Chapter 1 — Regulatory History and Evolution
- From SORA 1.0 to SORA 2.5: key methodological changes.
- European regulatory framework: EASA, Royal Decree 517/2024.
- Evolution of categories: Open → Specific → Certified.
- Context: why SORA has been mandatory since 2024.
Chapter 2 — SORA 2.5 Fundamentals
- ConOps (Concept of Operations): strategic documentation.
- GRC vs ARC: two independent dimensions of risk.
- OSOs (Operational Safety Objectives): 24 requirements per SAIL.
- SAIL I/II/III: table of technical and documentary requirements.
- Complete flow: ConOps → Evaluation → Authorization.
Chapter 3 — Scenario Analysis
- PDRA: 5 standard scenarios (S01, S02, G01-G03).
- Operational characterization: area, altitude, speed, proximity.
- Practical cases: agricultural mapping, line inspection, photogrammetry.
- Compatibility: when you can use standard scenarios.
Chapter 4 — Risk Assessment (GRC)
- Threat matrix: identification, severity, probability.
- GRC calculation (1-4): step-by-step procedure.
- Strategic vs tactical mitigations.
- TMPR: Tactical Mitigation Performance Requirements (quantifiable specification).
Chapter 5 — SAIL: Assurance Levels
- Reference table: 24 OSOs with requirements per SAIL.
- Interpretation: what each level means (L/M/H).
- Personnel certifications: required RPAS licenses.
- Technical documentation: manuals, procedures, SOP.
Chapter 6 — European Markets
- Comparative analysis: AESA vs DGAC vs LBA vs ENAC.
- Submission procedures by country.
- Additional country-specific documentation (language, formats).
- Typical response times: 15-30 days AESA, 30-60 DGAC.
- Key concept: SORA is identical across all countries; only presentation changes.
Chapter 7 — Use Cases by Sector
- Agriculture: multispectral mapping, phytosanitary operations.
- Inspection: power lines, bridges, pipelines.
- Photogrammetry: cartography, 3D models.
- Security: surveillance, patrols, events.
- Critical infrastructure: energy, telecommunications.
Chapter 8 — Templates and Documentation
- Responsibility matrix: Operator / Training Organization / Designer.
- AESA submission template: structure and minimum content.
- Operational Plan: fully annotated example.
- RFI (Request for Information): how to respond correctly.
- Pre-submission checklist: 50+ points to avoid rejections.
- Appendix A: Diagrams and reference tables.
- Appendix B: Technical glossary + official contacts.
- Appendix C: Real annotated examples.
- Appendix D: Complete OSOs × SAIL matrix.
Key Features:
- 7 decision flow diagrams (SORA decision, SAIL vs GRC, mitigation escalation, certification cycle).
- 12+ reference tables (SAIL requirements, OSOs matrix, authority comparison).
- Completely annotated real examples.
- Pre-submission checklist of 50+ points to avoid costly rejections.
- Integrated practical case: Inspection in 4 countries (AESA, DGAC, LBA, ENAC).
Benefits:
Avoid costly rejections. Save months with proven procedures. Step-by-step regulatory clarity. Reusable templates. Access to 4 European authority procedures.
If you need authorization in Specific Category in Europe, this book shows you exactly what documentation each national authority expects.
