Standard Scenarios
When is an operational manual required for STS-01 and STS-02 operations?
As a drone operator in the United Kingdom, it is important to know when an operational manual is necessary, especially for standard scenarios (STS) such as STS-01 and STS-02. These standard scenarios provide predefined conditions for certain Specific category operations. However, the requirement for an operational manual depends on operational specifics and national regulations. This article guides UAS operators on preparing and managing the correct documentation in compliance with UK CAA requirements.
What are STS-01 and STS-02?
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has implemented standard scenarios (STS) within the Specific category to streamline drone operations under defined conditions. STS-01 and STS-02 relate to specific operation types involving certain drone classes and operational environments.
STS-01 covers operations within visual line of sight (VLOS) over a controlled ground area in a populated environment using only a C5-certified drone. This scenario includes operational and technical conditions to mitigate risks.
STS-02 pertains to beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations using airspace observers over a controlled ground area in a sparsely populated environment, performed solely with a C6-certified drone. Due to the increased risks inherent to BVLOS, supplementary requirements are applied, such as stringent observer and communication protocols.
Both STS-01 and STS-02 can be conducted through an operational declaration when all specified conditions are met, eliminating the need for a separate operational authorisation.
- STS-01: VLOS operation over a controlled ground area in a populated environment with a C5 drone
- STS-02: BVLOS operation with airspace observers over a controlled ground area in a sparsely populated environment with a C6 drone
The role of the operational manual in STS-01 and STS-02
While an operational declaration suffices formally to conduct STS operations, the UK CAA requires that UAS operators maintain comprehensive operational documentation. This must include detailed operational procedures, training programmes, communication protocols, and emergency response plans.
An operational manual (also referred to as an operations manual or Emergency Response Procedures (ERP)) helps ensure consistent compliance with safety and regulatory standards. For STS-01 and STS-02 operations, the manual typically contains:
- Roles and responsibilities of the operational team
- Procedures for flight preparation and in-flight checks
- Management protocols for the controlled ground area and, specifically for STS-02, communication with airspace observers
- Responsibilities and tasks of operational personnel
- Specific procedures for pre-flight and in-flight checks
- Management of the controlled ground area and observer communication (STS-02)
When is an operational manual mandatory beyond an operational declaration?
If the operation, drone type, or environment does not fully comply with the requirements of STS-01 or STS-02, it is not permissible to approximate or stretch these standard scenarios. Instead, operators must submit a risk assessment using the UK’s Pre-Defined Risk Assessment (PDRA) or the more extensive Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) framework.
For PDRA or SORA-based operations, producing a detailed operational manual is mandatory to address flight-specific risks and operational characteristics. This involves drafting a Concept of Operations (ConOps) and submitting applications for an Operational Authorisation or Registration Certificate (ARC), depending on the assessed risk profile (SAIL).
The UK may impose additional national rules related to the format and content of manuals, communication requirements, and record-keeping procedures, all of which operators must verify with the UK CAA.
- Full compliance with STS criteria is required to use an operational declaration
- PDRA or SORA is required for any deviations in drone type, environment, or operation
- An operational manual is mandatory for all PDRA or SORA-based operations
Practical tips for compiling an operational manual for STS-01 and STS-02
When drafting or updating an operational manual for STS operations, it is advisable to utilise structured templates and checklists offered by platforms like DroneManual. These tools help develop comprehensive, well-organised documentation suitable for regulatory review.
Keep abreast of the latest updates in UK CAA regulations and relevant guidance to ensure compliance. Key elements to cover include:
- A clear explanation of the selected STS and its conditions
- Detailed procedures for managing risks and incidents during operations
- Training requirements and records of competencies for pilots and observers
- Use standardised templates and checklists to ensure completeness
- Regularly review changes in UK drone regulations
- Clearly document all procedures and responsibilities
- Maintain accurate training and incident management records
UK CAA obligations for drone operators regarding STS manuals
The UK CAA is responsible for overseeing drone operations within the UK’s Specific category, enforcing national supplements to the retained EU drone regulations. The Authority reviews operational declarations to ensure they are applied correctly.
While STS-01 and STS-02 operations can be conducted using an operational declaration without a full operational authorisation, the UK CAA explicitly expects operators to keep full and up-to-date documentation. The operational manual is a key instrument in this compliance and risk management process.
Failure to comply with STS conditions or documentation requirements may result in enforcement action and operational constraints. Operators should maintain their manuals diligently and make them available upon request during inspections.
- UK CAA monitors compliance with STS conditions
- Operational declarations do not replace robust documentation
- An operational manual is essential as proof of compliance and safe operation
Frequently asked questions
Is an operational manual mandatory for STS-01 and STS-02 operations?
If all the STS conditions are met, an operational declaration suffices, but the operator must document all operating procedures in a manual. This acts as evidence of compliance and aids consistent safe operations.
What should be included in an operational manual for STS operations?
The manual should clearly outline personnel responsibilities, preparation and communication procedures, technical checks, training records, flight data recording, emergency response protocols, and maintenance schedules to support safe and compliant operation.
Can I use an STS declaration if my drone is not C5 or C6 certified?
No. STS-01 and STS-02 require the use of C5 and C6 certified drones respectively. Using drones outside these classes means you do not meet the standard scenario requirements and must follow a PDRA or SORA risk assessment pathway.
What national additional requirements does the UK CAA impose on STS operational manuals?
The UK CAA emphasises documenting communication procedures, monitoring controlled ground areas, and deploying observers effectively. It also requires an adequate Emergency Response Plan (ERP) to be prepared and maintained.
How can DroneManual help with drafting my operational manual?
DroneManual offers structured examples and checklists aligned with UK and international regulations to assist UAS operators in creating and maintaining compliant operational manuals efficiently and accurately.