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Drone Shows - How to Get the SORA Permits
Drone shows have gained immense popularity at events and shows around the world, offering stunning visual choreography with swarms of illuminated drones. However, behind each of these shows, there is a rigorous permitting process to ensure that operations are carried out safely and in compliance with regulations.
This article aims to guide you through the necessary steps to obtain the appropriate permits to conduct a drone show, addressing key aspects such as the specific category of operation, risk analysis under the SORA methodology, the implementation of systems such as the Flight Termination System (FTS) and risk mitigation on the ground. In addition, remote identification requirements (DRI) for drone swarms and how to manage flight geography will be discussed.
What is the Specific Category?
In order to fly a drone show or drone swarm, an Operational Authorisation in the Specific Category is required. This category is designed for operations that present a higher level of risk than the Open Category, which is the most basic and low risk category. The Specific Category covers more complex operations, such as drone swarm flights, where operations with unmanned aircraft must be safe.
Obtaining an authorisation in this category involves a detailed analysis of the risk presented by the operation. Operators must provide civil aviation authorities with a clear assessment of the environment, the drones used and the safety measures implemented. For more information on how to classify your operation in the Specific Category, you can read more here.
The SORA Methodology and its importance for Drone Shows
Once it has been established that your drone show operation falls into the Specific Category, the next step is to apply the SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) methodology. This operational risk assessment is crucial to obtain the necessary permits and ensure safety during the show.
The SORA provides a step-by-step structure to identify risks both in the air and on the ground. It helps operators determine what mitigations are necessary to reduce the hazards that could be posed by a drone swarm flight. The methodology focuses on two types of risk:
- Ground risk: This analyses the potential impact of drones on people and property should any of them fail or lose control.
- Risk in the air: This assesses the likelihood of drones interfering with manned aircraft in airspace.
For those who wish to learn more about how the SORA methodology works, you can read more about it here.
Flight Geography: Understanding the Key Elements
When planning a drone show, one of the most critical aspects is to understand and manage the geography of flight. Under the SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) methodology, this concept encompasses several essential components that help define the necessary safety measures and design of the operation. These include operational volume, contingency volume, ground risk buffer and adjacent area management. Let’s dive deeper into each of these key concepts.
Operational Volume
The operational volume is the three-dimensional space in which the drones will fly during the show. This volume must be clearly defined to ensure that the aircraft do not deviate from the planned trajectory. In a drone show, where multiple coordinated drones are used, this volume takes on special relevance, as it must be large enough to allow for the necessary manoeuvres without compromising safety.
Correctly defining the operational volume involves taking into account both the technical limitations of the drones (such as their range and autonomy) and the restrictions imposed by the aviation authorities. In addition, the operational volume is set according to the environment in which the flight will take place, whether it is an urban area, a rural area or near an airport.
Flight Geography
Flight geography is intrinsically linked to the operational volume, as it refers to the physical characteristics of the space in which the operation will take place.
Analysis of flight geography involves identifying any obstacles, such as buildings, mountains or bodies of water, that may affect the operation. It is also essential to consider proximity to populated areas, as the risk increases considerably when flying close to people or infrastructure. Proper assessment of the flight geography is essential to determine the limits of the operational volume and to define exclusion zones if necessary.
Contingency Volume
The contingency volume is an additional area that is established around the operational volume to cover possible deviations or technical failures during flight. This space acts as a safety zone that allows drones to continue flying in a controlled manner in the event of an emergency without leaving the delimited area.
The contingency volume is a key measure to ensure that, even in unforeseen situations, drones can land safely or return to their base without putting people or property at risk. This volume should be designed taking into account factors such as the autonomy of the drones and possible adverse weather conditions.
Ground Risk Buffer
The ground risk buffer is another layer of protection that is implemented to reduce the risk in case a drone fails and falls to the ground. This buffer is an extension around the operational volume that provides an additional safety zone on the ground. By establishing an appropriate buffer, the risk of drones falling on people, buildings or critical infrastructure is minimised.
This buffer is calculated based on the population density of the area of operation, the flight altitude and the type of drones used. In urban environments, for example, the ground risk buffer will be larger than in rural areas due to the higher risk of flying over large concentrations of people.
Adjacent Area
The concept of adjacent area refers to the areas surrounding the operational volume and the contingency volume. Although these areas are not directly included in the drone operation, it is essential to consider them during planning, as any uncontrolled flight deviation could affect these areas.
Analysis of the adjacent area identifies potential risks that could extend beyond the controlled volume, such as proximity to roads, industrial facilities or nature reserves. If the adjacent area presents significant risks, additional measures may be required, such as geofencing systems or specific emergency plans.
By properly understanding and managing these elements, operators can ensure that the drone show is conducted safely and complies with all applicable regulations under the SORA methodology. For more details on the geography of flight and its impact on drone operations, please see the full article here.
Flight Termination System (FTS)
The Flight Termination System (FTS) is a crucial component in the planning of a drone show. This system allows the operator to immediately terminate the flight of a drone in the event of a loss of control or an emergency. The FTS is a key tool within SORA emergency procedures and helps to avoid the need for a disproportionate buffer zone.
If drones in a swarm do not have an FTS, authorities may require a much larger safety zone to be established around the flight area, which could make it difficult to perform the show. However, with an effective termination system, the operator can demonstrate that risks are controlled and that any incidents can be resolved immediately, without endangering nearby people or property.
You can read more details about the FTS here.
DRI: Remote Identification Systems
Finally, it is essential to talk about remote identification systems (DRI), which are a requirement for drone swarms in many countries. DRI provides authorities with the ability to monitor and control drones in flight, ensuring that they operate within established regulations. DRI systems allow drones and their operator to be identified in real time, facilitating control of the operation and helping authorities to manage airspace effectively.
This control is vital to ensure that all drones comply with current regulations and that authorities can intervene quickly if necessary. Implementing a DRI not only ensures legal compliance, but also enhances the safety of the show.
For more details on remote identification systems, you can read more here.
Tips for Organising a Drone Show
Organising a drone show requires more than creativity and technology; it also involves complying with strict regulations to ensure safety. From obtaining the necessary permits in the Specific Category to implementing systems such as FTS and DRI, every aspect must be carefully planned. The SORA methodology provides a solid foundation for managing risks, both in the air and on the ground, to ensure that the show is conducted in a safe and spectacular manner.
If you are planning a drone show and need help with SORA permitting, we at EU Drone Port are experts in operational authorisations. Our team will guide you step-by-step through the process, ensuring that you comply with all regulations and that your operation is approved without hassle.
Don’t let bureaucracy stop you. Contact us today and get the permission you need to get your drone show off the ground safely and successfully. Find out more about how we can help you here and start working with the best professionals in the drone industry.