Certification Requirements for Class C6 Drones

The European Union has established a comprehensive regulatory framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, to ensure safety and efficiency in airspace. Within this framework, Class C6 represents a category designed for operations in the “specific” category, often used under Standard Scenarios (STS-02). These drones are subject to strict technical and operational requirements due to their higher risk potential and more complex applications, such as BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line Of Sight) operations.

In this article, we explore in detail the essential requirements for Class C6 UAS, offering manufacturers and operators a complete understanding of this classification under Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 and Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947.

What Is a Class C6 UAS

Class C6 drones are designed for use within the “specific” category, specifically under standard scenarios such as STS-02. This means that, unlike drones in the “open” category, they require an operational authorization or a declaration of compliance with a standard scenario filed with the competent authority. This class allows for more ambitious operations, always under strict conditions and with enhanced safety features.

Class Identification Label

Each Class C6 UAS must carry a visible label on the aircraft indicating its classification.

Maximum Take-Off Mass (MTOM)

A fundamental requirement of Class C6 drones is their maximum take-off mass (MTOM), which must be less than 25 kg, including all payload.

Maximum Characteristic Dimension

The maximum characteristic dimension of the drone (e.g., diagonal length in the case of multicopters) must not exceed 3 meters. If the UA can be equipped with accessories and external payloads, the characteristic dimension is the maximum size of the UA with payload and accessories attached.

Maximum Horizontal Flight Speed

The Class C6 drone must have a maximum horizontal flight speed not exceeding 50 m/s. The manufacturer must declare this maximum speed in the drone’s instructions and verify that it is not exceeded in any direction of level flight.

UA Position, Speed, and Altitude Information

Class C6 drones must provide clear and continuous information to the remote pilot on the geographic position, speed, and altitude above the surface or take-off point.

UA Flight Trajectory Planning

The Class C6 UAS must provide a means to program the flight path before take-off. If flexible routes are used, the UAS must be equipped with means to remain within the intended operational volume, including preventing the UA from exceeding horizontal and vertical limits of a programmable operational volume.

C2 Link Monitoring and Alerts

The Class C6 UAS must continuously monitor the command and control (C2) link and provide the remote pilot with a visual signal strength indication with at least four levels (strong, medium, weak, C2 link loss). The C2 link must be protected against unauthorized access.

Flight Termination System (FTS)

A crucial requirement for Class C6 drones is that they must be equipped with a means to terminate the flight that is separate from the flight control system and that prevents the continuation of flight. This flight termination system (FTS) must be reliable, predictable, and independent of the autopilot system. The descent rate and distance traveled after activation of the FTS must be compatible with the minimum ground risk buffer specified by the manufacturer in the instructions. The FTS may be purely manual, purely automatic, or a combination of both. In the event of permanent C2 link loss, the UAS must automatically perform the flight termination function.

Geocaging Function

The Class C6 UAS must be equipped with an active system to prevent the aircraft from breaching the flight geography. The geocaging function must trigger an automatic contingency maneuver if the flight geography is violated, to ensure that, under normal flight conditions, the UA does not exceed the horizontal or vertical limits of the operational volume.

Manufacturer’s Instructions

The instructions provided by the manufacturer are essential for safe and compliant operation. The regulation requires that Class C6 drones include documentation covering:

Drone characteristics
Loss of command and control (C2) link
Clear operational instructions
Procedure for uploading airspace limitations into the geo-awareness function (if applicable)
Maintenance instructions
Troubleshooting procedures
Operational limitations
Risk descriptions and safety precautions

EASA Information Notice

All Class C6 drones must include an information notice from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This must be the correct document published by EASA, available on its website, and it must be clearly visible on the packaging and legible, with a minimum page size of A6 and paper weight that reduces transparency to facilitate readability.

Class C6 is essential for the safe and responsible integration of drones into more complex operations within European airspace. Complying with these technical and operational requirements not only ensures conformity with EU regulations but also contributes to a safer and more structured drone ecosystem. By adhering to the criteria described, your C6 drone can operate safely and legally in the European market.

For more details on class labels and UAS certification, visit the EU Drone Port certification website. If you’re a manufacturer looking to certify your drones, EU Drone Port offers expert certification services as a recognized notified body.

Start the process with us at EU Drone Port and ensure your drone meets all Class C6 regulatory requirements for safe and compliant operation!