How do you obtain Operational Authorisation in the UK Specific Category?

Operators must submit an application to the CAA, supported by an appropriate pilot competency such as a GVC, RPC-L1, or RPC-L2, along with an Operations Manual and either PDRA01 compliance or a UK SORA, depending on the complexity of the planned mission.

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Related Questions

Can PDRA01 be used for BVLOS operations?

No. PDRA01 only supports VLOS operations. Missions that require BLOVS operations typically require a UK SORA risk assessment.

Is GVC a must for PDRA01?

Not necessarily. Many operators obtain a General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC) when applying for Operational Authorisation under PDRA01, but the CAA also recognises other competency routes such as the Level 1 Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC-L1).

When do you need UK SORA instead of PDRA01?

UK SORA is typically required when an operation cannot meet PDRA01 limitations, such as BVLOS missions, operations near complex airspace, or advanced operational scenarios that require tailored safety mitigations.