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Certification requirements for C1 Drones

The C1 classification under European regulations for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) establishes strict design, manufacturing, and functionality requirements. These standards ensure safety and interoperability of drones in European airspace. If you’re a UAS manufacturer, this guide outlines the essential technical requirements for developing drones certified as C1.

Maximum Take-Off Mass (MTOM) and Impact Energy

C1 drones can meet this requirement in two ways:

  1. MTOM below 900 grams:
    • The maximum weight, including payload, must not exceed 900 g.

  2. MTOM above 900 grams:
    • If the drone exceeds this weight, it must be demonstrated that the kinetic energy transmitted to a person in case of an impact does not exceed 80 joules. This parameter considers terminal velocity and ensures operational safety.

Both options ensure collision safety and compliance with applicable European regulations.

General Design Features

  1. Class Identification:
    • Every C1-class drone must carry a clearly visible class identification label.

  2. Maximum Speed:
    • The maximum speed in level flight is limited to 19 m/s.

  3. Maximum Flight Altitude:
    • Must be restricted to 120 meters above the take-off point, with a system that automatically limits this height or allows configuration. The altitude must be displayed to the operator in real-time.

  4. Lighting:
    • Drones must have visible lights for nighttime operations, including at least one flashing green light to ensure visibility from the ground.

  5. Follow-Me Mode:
    • If this feature is included, it must be limited to a maximum distance of 50 meters from the pilot, with the ability to recover manual control at any time.

  6. Electrical System:
    • The drone must be powered exclusively by electricity.

  7. Sound Power:
    • For non-fixed-wing drones, the guaranteed A-weighted sound power level (LWA) must comply with established limits. The sound level must be indicated on the drone or its packaging.
167C96A0-E3C4-4CD3-95F9-A22F87114D01 More info

Safety and Injury Mitigation

  1. Safe Design:
    • Sharp edges must be avoided, and propellers must minimize injury risks.

  2. Control in Case of Link Loss:
    • The recovery of the command and control (C2) link must be ensured predictably, or alternatively, the flight must be safely terminated.

Identification and Geo-Awareness

  1. Direct Remote Identification:
    • Drones must periodically broadcast information such as:
      • Operator registration number.
      • Unique serial number compliant with ANSI/CTA-2063-A-2019.
      • Geographical location and altitude.
      • Course and ground speed.
      • Location of the remote pilot or take-off point.
      • Emergency status.

  2. Geo-Awareness:
    • The system must:
      • Detect and alert potential airspace violations.
      • Notify the operator if positioning or navigation systems fail.

  3. Airspace Restriction:
    • If the drone has functions to block access to certain areas, these must operate without affecting flight safety and notify the pilot when access is restricted.

Stability and Controllability

  1. Safe Control:
    • The drone must be controllable under all expected operating conditions, including critical system failures and variable weather within operating limits.

  2. Structural Resistance:
    • It must be ensured that structural components can withstand the expected loads without permanent deformation or damage.

  3. Structural Loads:
    • It must be demonstrated that components can withstand maneuver, landing, and impact loads, including those caused by parachute deployment, if applicable.

Documentation and Labeling

  1. Technical Documentation:
    • Drones must include relevant technical specifications (weight, maximum speed, altitude, etc.).

  2. Labeling:
    • Drones must carry a label clearly indicating their C1 classification and sound power levels.

  3. Unique Serial Number:
    • Each drone must include a unique serial number compliant with ANSI/CTA-2063-A-2019.
167C96A0-E3C4-4CD3-95F9-A22F87114D01 More info

Warnings and Safety Procedures

  1. Low Battery Alert:
    • The system must ensure that the pilot is alerted when the battery reaches a critical level, providing sufficient time for a safe landing.

  2. Emergency Notifications:
    • Real-time notifications must be provided regarding emergency states or failures.

  3. Operational Risks:
    • Warnings must include environmental conditions, proximity to critical infrastructure, and privacy considerations.

Conclusion

The C1 classification represents a vital step in ensuring the safety and reliability of drones in European airspace. Manufacturers who meet these requirements not only comply with regulatory standards but also contribute to a safer and more structured drone ecosystem. By adhering to the technical, operational, and certification criteria outlined, your C1 drone can seamlessly integrate into the European market.

For further details on class labels and UAS certification, visit EU Drone Port’s Certification site.
167C96A0-E3C4-4CD3-95F9-A22F87114D01 More info

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Certification requirements for C1 Drones