UK CONOPS
Writing a ConOps for UK drone operations
The ConOps is the factual foundation of a UK operational-authorisation dossier. It should describe what will happen, where, with which UAS and people, and within which boundaries.
Define purpose and scope
Describe activity, locations, frequency, aircraft, payload, crew, third parties, exclusions and the intended UK authorisation route.
Describe volumes and environment
Document flight geography, operational and contingency volumes, adjacent areas, ground environment, airspace and relevant buffers using the terminology of the selected UK route.
Control consistency
Use the ConOps limits throughout the assessment, manual, ERP and operational plan. Record revisions when the concept changes.
Frequently asked questions
Is a ConOps a flight plan?
No. It defines the operating concept and boundaries; a flight plan or site plan applies them to a particular operation.
Can a generic ConOps be submitted?
A reusable structure is possible, but the content must describe the real UK operation precisely enough to assess it.