Operational Authorisation - SORA.
WHAT IS IT?
Your SORA operational authorisation, handled end to end
A SORA operational authorisation lets you fly almost any operation the standard scenarios and PDRAs do not cover, from drone shows to heavy lift and BVLOS delivery.
SORA is the Specific Operations Risk Assessment method required by Regulation (EU) 2019/947. We turn your idea into a concept of operations, run the full assessment, write every document and deal with the aviation authority until you hold the authorisation. More than 50 operational authorisations approved in different countries.
WHY DO I NEED OPERATIONAL AUTHORISATION?
Unlock any flight scenario
If your operation does not meet the published STS requirements, you’ll probably have to do an Operational Authorisation. You will be able to fly under ConOps such:
Drone Swarm /
Light Shows
BVLOS Drone Delivery
Drone in a Box
Agriculture - Drone Spraying
Non-Certified Drones
>25 Kg Multirotors
>120 m AGL
Over concentrations of people
WHO IS IT FOR?
When you need a full SORA
No standard scenario or PDRA fits
Your operation goes beyond the limits of STS-01, STS-02 and every pre-defined assessment.
Complex or innovative operations
Drone shows, automated docks, long-range BVLOS, heavy lift or flights above 120 m.
Uncertified or heavy drones
Prototypes, custom builds or aircraft over 25 kg that need a risk-based approval.
HOW IT WORKS?
Timeline for achieving this
Fill in the request form below
An expert sends you a short form to learn about your operation
We send the invoice for 60% of the fee. Once paid, we prepare your ConOps and SORA
Submission of the documentation to the CAA
We answer the authority’s feedback. The remaining 40% is only due once your SORA is approved
DAY 0
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 30
DEPENDS ON CAA
WHAT YOU WILL GET
Pricing for you
All these documents included
- Operations Manuals
- Specific Operation Risk Assessment
- Air & Ground Risk Assessment
- Deconfliction Zone
- Personnel Training Log
- Maintenance Manual
- Maintenance Log
- Emergency Response Plan (ERP)
- Manufacturer's Instructions
- Technical Characterisation
- Any document required by your CAA
€ 2,950 +VAT
Prices can be increased according to ConOps complexity
EXPERIENCE
Last approved projects
We have received approval for 50+ Operational Authorisations, in different countries, such as:
400 Drone Swarm Flight
Approved Operational Authorisation for the 400 drones flight in controlled airspace, urban scenarios, and close to safety airport areas.
+150 kg Drone
Approved Operational Authorisation for a 150 kg UAS flight in sparsely populated environment in VLOS.
5G Drone Operations from a Docking Station
Approved Operational Authorisation for remote operation of a UAS for using 5G for surveillance purposes.
+25 kg Tethered UAS in Urban Scenario
Approved Operational Authorisation for a tethered heavy lifter drone in urban scenarios.
Long-range BVLOS for 10 km
Approved Operational Authorisation for 10 km BVLOS drone operations in sparsely populated environments with UAS < 25 kg.
+120 m (400 ft) Altitude Operations
Approved Operational Authorisation for operations above the conventional 120m ceiling limitation.
FAQ
SORA operational authorisation: frequently asked questions
What is a SAIL level?
SAIL, from I to VI, is the outcome of the SORA. It sets how demanding the safety objectives are, and therefore how much evidence the authority will ask for.
SORA or PDRA: which do I need?
If your operation fits a PDRA, that route is faster and cheaper. SORA is for everything that does not. See our PDRA service.
How long does a SORA take?
We submit in about 30 days. The authority’s review time depends on the country and the SAIL level.
How much does a SORA cost?
From €2,950 + VAT. The price grows with the complexity of the concept of operations. You pay 60% upfront and the remaining 40% only when the authority approves your project. If it is not approved, you do not pay the remaining 40%.
When is a LUC better than repeated SORAs?
When you run many different operations, a Light UAS Operator Certificate lets you authorise them yourself. See our LUC service.
GUIDES
Free SORA guides
GET STARTED
Book a meeting with us
An expert will assess you about the viability of the project, and will send you a personalised quotation.