Free PDRA comparison
PDRA-S01 vs PDRA-S02: choosing the right one
PDRA-S01 and PDRA-S02 mirror the STS-01 and STS-02 standard scenarios for drones without a C5 or C6 class label. S01 covers VLOS over a controlled ground area. S02 covers BVLOS in a sparsely populated environment. Here is how to pick.
Side by side
The key differences
Both need a controlled ground area and an operational authorisation. The line of sight and the environment decide which one you use.
| Condition | PDRA-S01 | PDRA-S02 |
|---|---|---|
| Line of sight | VLOS | BVLOS |
| Distance | Within visual line of sight | Up to 1 km, or 2 km with airspace observers |
| Ground area | Controlled ground area | Controlled ground area |
| Environment | Can be in a populated environment | Sparsely populated environment |
| Drone size | Characteristic dimension up to 3 m | Characteristic dimension up to 3 m |
| Class label | Not required | Not required |
| Related scenario | STS-01 | STS-02 |
| Typical use | Urban inspection, filming on closed sets | Corridor and infrastructure inspection |
Summary of the EASA PDRA conditions. Check the full current conditions before applying.
Choose PDRA-S01 when
You keep the drone in sight and fly over an area you control, including in towns, but your drone has no C5 label.
Choose PDRA-S02 when
You fly beyond visual line of sight over a controlled area in open country, but your drone has no C6 label.
Why not STS?
STS declarations need C5 or C6 drones. The PDRAs give the same type of operation to operators with other drones, through an authorisation instead of a declaration.
When neither fits
Longer BVLOS, uncontrolled ground areas or larger drones need another PDRA or a full SORA.
The ground area must be controlled
Both PDRAs require that no uninvolved people are inside the ground area during the flight. Plan how you will secure it.
What you’ll get
The free PDRA-S01 vs S02 guide
- Condition-by-condition comparison
- How each relates to STS-01 and STS-02
- Ground area and buffer planning
- Crew and training requirements
- When to use another PDRA or SORA
Get the Free PDRA-S01 vs S02 Guide
The two most used PDRAs compared, condition by condition.
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More free guides
More free guides for PDRA applicants
FAQ
Questions about PDRA-S01 and PDRA-S02
What is PDRA-S01?
A pre-defined risk assessment for VLOS operations over a controlled ground area, which can be in a populated environment. It mirrors STS-01 for drones without a C5 class label.
What is PDRA-S02?
A pre-defined risk assessment for BVLOS operations over a controlled ground area in a sparsely populated environment, up to 1 km or 2 km with airspace observers. It mirrors STS-02.
Do I need a class-labelled drone for PDRA-S01 or S02?
No. That is the main difference from the standard scenarios, which require C5 or C6 drones.
Is a PDRA a declaration or an authorisation?
An authorisation. You apply to the national authority and wait for approval before flying.
Can I hold both PDRA-S01 and PDRA-S02?
Yes. Many operators apply for both so they can take VLOS and BVLOS jobs.
Can EU Drone Port prepare my PDRA?
Yes. We prepare the operations manual and application for PDRA-S01, PDRA-S02 or both, from €1,950 + VAT.
Last updated: October 2026. Source: Regulation (EU) 2019/947 and EASA AMC and GM to the regulation.
S01 or S02? Free comparison guide.
The two most used PDRAs compared, condition by condition.
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