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Training for Specific Category (SORA): what it is, when it is needed and how it works
Within the European UAS regulatory framework, not all operations fit into the open category or standard scenarios (STS). When a mission presents operational particularities that require a full risk assessment, the authorisation is processed through a SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) evaluation. In these cases, a lesser-known type of training also comes into play: training for the specific category.
This article explains when it is required, what it involves and who can deliver it.
When is this training required?
SORA-based specific training is necessary when an operator develops its own operational authorisation, meaning that the operations do not fit within either the open category or the standard specific category (STS).
In these situations, the competent authority will assess not only the SORA analysis, but also the competence of the personnel who will carry out the operation. This means demonstrating that pilots, observers and key staff have received training adapted to the specific ConOps.
For this reason, in non-standard operations training stops being generic and becomes directly linked to the authorisation.
What does SORA training involve?
Training for operations under an operational authorisation is not a single or standardised course. In practice, it combines two different levels: general training based on minimum competencies and specific training adapted to the particular concept of operations (ConOps).
On the one hand, Article 8 of Regulation (EU) 2019/947 establishes that pilots must demonstrate a set of operational competencies. This usually translates into more general training covering aspects such as normal and emergency procedures, mission planning, airspace management, human factors and UAS knowledge.
On the other hand, each operational authorisation requires specific training linked to the particular operation. This part is defined by the operator within its Operations Manual and is based directly on the ConOps and on the mitigations identified during the SORA process.
In practice, this means that two pilots with the same foundation may require different additional training depending on the operation. For example:
- BVLOS operations,
- night flights,
- urban environment operations,
- operations involving multiple UAS or a high level of automation.
The key idea is that training is not designed in a generic way, but evolves alongside the level of complexity and risk of each authorised operation.
Who delivers this training?
In practice, this usually involves a combined model:
- Designated entities: provide the more structured part of the training, particularly that related to the general competencies required to operate in the specific category.
- UAS operator: is responsible for the training linked to its specific operation, including internal procedures, the concept of operations (ConOps), the UAS used and the operational mitigations defined in the SORA.
Since practical implementation may vary between Member States, it is always recommended to consult the information published by the relevant competent authority to understand how these requirements are applied in each country.
Do you need support with your operational authorisation or training programme?
If you are preparing a specific category operation or developing a SORA, it is important to consider from the outset both the operational authorisation and the associated training programme.
At EU Drone Port we can support you throughout the entire process: from designing the ConOps and preparing the documentation required for the operational authorisation, to defining and delivering the training required for your team.
In addition, we act as a Designated Entity authorised by the competent authority (AESA) to deliver remote pilot training for operations under operational authorisation, allowing us to integrate the regulatory and operational aspects within a single workflow. This helps ensure that training is fully aligned with your Operations Manual, mission profile and the mitigations defined in the SORA.
No. The training is not a single course applicable to all cases. There is a common competency foundation, but each operational authorisation may require additional training adapted to the concept of operations (ConOps), the operator’s procedures and the mitigations defined in the SORA.
It depends. If you have already received training covering general competencies or specific modules applicable to the new operation, it is usually not necessary to repeat them. However, additional training may be required when a new ConOps introduces different risks, environments or procedures.
The operator plays a key role in training, especially in everything related to internal procedures, the Operations Manual and the UAS used. However, part of the training must be delivered with the participation of a designated entity approved by the competent authority, in accordance with the applicable regulatory framework.
No. Training for operational authorisations assumes that the pilot already holds the necessary prior competencies. It is additional training aimed at more complex operations within the specific category, not a replacement for basic training pathways.