Introduction

The risk-based regulatory framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) that is emerging from JARUS and recommended for worldwide application is generally based on the definition of three categories of operations: A (Open), B (Specific) and C (Certified).

To operate in the B category, operators shall normally submit a risk assessment to the CAA for evaluation and approval. In the case of standard scenarios, the risk assessment is developed by the authority. The Specific Operation Risk Assessment (SORA) methodology has been developed by JARUS (Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems) primarily aimed at the B (specific) category.

In the EU, risk assessment in category B (“specific”) is mandated by Article 11 of the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 of 24 May 2019 on the rules and procedures for the operation of unmanned aircraft. The structure and wording of that article mirror the structure and semantics of SORA. Furthermore, this methodology is recommended for use in Europe (as AMC) by EASA; it is also widely used worldwide.

This course will provide a detailed description of the SORA methodology with examples of real-life applications which enable participants to explain the process and apply it autonomously.

Course Content

9 lectures of about 50 minutes, plus 4 group exercises (1 hour each), plus 1 hour for the final examination. In total, 14 modules of around 1 hour were distributed over 2 consecutive days.

The 9 lectures include:

1. Course introduction and objectives
2. Background (OPS categories, why SORA)
3. SORA Introduction (objectives, applicability, terminology, structure)
4. SORA Process - CONOPS
5. The Ground Risk model and the mitigations to reduce the Intrinsic Ground Risk
6. SORA Process  - Air Risk Model
7. Strategic and tactical mitigations to reduce the Intrinsic Air Risk
8. SORA Process - Operational Safety Objectives
9. Full example of application of SORA process to a real scenario

Learning Objectives

After completing the course:

• All participants should be able to explain the SORA process to colleagues and to apply autonomously
• Participants from aviation authorities should be able to understand the SORA methodology for an effective assessment of the applications received

Who should take this course

Aviation professionals, CAA inspectors, operators and manufacturers feeling the need to learn how to apply the SORA methodology to develop or evaluate safety assessments for operations in the B category. The assessment is always required in this category, in case of either a standard scenario, an application for authorisation or internal records of the certified UAS operator.

 The target group includes:

• Middle managers, rulemaking officials, developers of standard scenarios and inspectors of CAAs
• Middle managers of UAS industry, remote pilots, instructors and other aviation professionals desiring to become able to apply the SORA methodology

Personnel of Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) wishing to better understand how SORA deals with the interaction between UAS and other traffic in controlled airspace.

Pre-requisites

Essential:

• Good command of the English language
• University graduation (bachelor), or 3 years of experience in traditional aviation, or 1 year of experience on drones.

Desirable:

• Good understanding of the respective roles of institutions, agencies and other entities involved in developing the regulatory framework for drones
• Previously attended the JAA TO course UAS-OPS

Duration

2 days, starting at 9:00 and ending at 17:00