IRELAND · Operational Authorisation
Applying for an Operational Authorisation for Drones
If the operation falls outside Open and does not fully fit within a European standard scenario, an operational authorisation may be required. In the Ireland, IAA handles applications for the Specific category. The application must present the operation, risk analysis, procedures, and evidence as one consistent dossier.
1. Classify the Operation
First determine why Open or STS is insufficient. Describe environment, VLOS/BVLOS, airspace, territory, UAS, and operational limits. Then select a suitable PDRA or perform a SORA.
2. Build a Coherent Dossier
ConOps, risk analysis, operational manual, and evidence must describe the same operation. Avoid different heights, distances, roles, or mitigations in separate documents.
- Application details and ConOps
- PDRA compliance or SORA
- Operations Manual and ERP
- Technical, organisational and crew evidence
3. Check National Conditions
A European authorisation does not remove national conditions. Check Irish rules for airspace, BVLOS, locations, night operations, and any additional permissions.
4. Process Questions in a Controlled Manner
Register remarks from the authority, link each response to a change or evidence, and update revision number and references. Do not only change the reply letter; adjust the source document where the content belongs.
Frequently asked questions
Does a complete dossier guarantee a permit?
No. IAA assesses the specific application. Completeness and consistency help but do not guarantee issuance.
Is a Irish authorisation valid throughout the EU?
An authorisation can be used European-wide, but cross-border operations require a separate procedure and local conditions of the other Member State may apply.