IRELAND · SORA Guide
SORA Guide for Drone Operations: What Is It and How to Apply It?
The Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) is a methodology developed by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to classify and mitigate the risks of drone flights in the specific category. This guide provides a step-by-step explanation of how to apply SORA to your drone operations.
What Is SORA?
SORA is a systematic methodology for identifying and mitigating risks in drone operations that do not fall under standard scenarios (STS) or predefined risk assessments (PDRA) within the EASA framework. It assists UAS operators in determining operational boundaries, training requirements, and technical characteristics of drones to enable safe operations.
SORA consists of a series of steps that help the operator evaluate the ground risk (Ground Risk Class, GRC) and air risk (Air Risk Class, ARC) of a planned operation, after which mitigations are established to achieve an acceptable level of operational safety.
- Targeted at operations in the EASA specific category that cannot be covered by STS or PDRA.
- Systematically assesses both ground and air risks.
- Provides input for drafting an operational manual (Concept of Operations, ConOps) and an operational authorisation.
When Is SORA Relevant for Irish Drone Operators?
In Ireland, operators conducting drone flights in the open category do not need to apply SORA, as this category automatically permits low-risk operations. However, for specific category operations where no PDRA is applicable, SORA is the appropriate risk assessment methodology.
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) requires the use of SORA as part of the application process for an operational authorisation in the specific category when the operation does not fit within standard scenarios or available PDRAs.
Note: The EU Standard Scenarios (STS) declaration route is recognised in Ireland as part of the EASA framework for certain operations but is not used in the United Kingdom. Operators in Ireland may choose between PDRA or SORA routes when relevant.
- Mandatory for complex or higher-risk Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations in the specific category without applicable PDRA.
- Used for new or atypical drone operations outside standard scenarios and PDRAs.
- Forms the basis for submitting an operational authorisation application to the IAA.
The 10-Step Approach of SORA for Drone Operations
SORA comprises ten successive steps guiding the operator through identifying, classifying, and mitigating operational risks. This process begins with a detailed description of the operation and concludes with establishing conditions for a safe operational authorisation.
Critical steps include determining the Ground Risk Class (GRC) and Air Risk Class (ARC), selecting geographical and procedural mitigations, and implementing an operational risk management plan (ConOps).
The outcomes of the SORA must be clearly documented and integrated within the operational manual and the Emergency Response Plan (ERP), which together form part of the authorisation dossier submitted to the IAA.
- Step 1: Describe the operation clearly in a Concept of Operations (ConOps).
- Steps 2-4: Identify Ground Risk Class (GRC) and Air Risk Class (ARC).
- Steps 5-7: Apply mitigations and adjust risk levels using correction factors.
- Steps 8-9: Summarise the overall risk profile, resulting in the Specific Assurance and Integrity Level (SAIL).
- Step 10: Define operational limitations, training requirements, and safety measures.
Practical Tips for Setting Up SORA Dossiers
Prepare a detailed ConOps that clearly outlines the nature of the operation, operational environment, and drone equipment specifications. This forms the foundation of the risk assessment.
Engage with an official safety advisor or use recognised Pre-Defined Risk Assessments (PDRAs) where relevant to streamline the process and reduce the workload.
Maintain comprehensive documentation for all identified mitigations and underlying assumptions, including referencing appropriate SORA steps and evidence. This thorough documentation is essential when submitting an application to the IAA.
Verify that all operational restrictions align with the ConOps description and that the Emergency Response Plan (ERP) adequately addresses foreseeable emergency scenarios.
- Ensure the Concept of Operations (ConOps) is clear and complete.
- Utilise PDRA methods where applicable to ease procedural burden.
- Document mitigations and training requirements rigorously.
- Include a detailed Emergency Response Plan (ERP) with appropriate contingency procedures.
Common Mistakes in Applying SORA and What to Watch Out For
A frequent error is inadequate definition of the operational area boundaries, leading to risks to adjacent areas being overlooked, which compromises the completeness of the risk assessment.
Operators often underestimate the scope and type of technical and organisational mitigations needed to satisfy the SORA methodology requirements.
Failing to ensure consistency and coherence between the operational manual, ERP, and ConOps can result in discrepancies during execution and may cause refusal of the operational authorisation by the IAA.
- Incomplete or ambiguous delineation of the operational volume.
- Underestimating required mitigations and operator training levels.
- Weak integration between ConOps, ERP, and operational manuals.
- Neglecting to follow current legal and IAA regulatory requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SORA and PDRA?
SORA is a comprehensive methodology designed to assess risks for complex drone operations falling outside standard scenarios and predefined risk assessments (PDRAs). PDRAs are standardised risk assessments for specific, well-defined operational situations and are easier for operators to use. In Ireland, a UAS operator can choose between a PDRA-based or a SORA-based operational authorisation under the specific category, depending on the operation’s risk profile.
Is SORA mandatory for all drone operators in Ireland?
No. SORA is only mandatory for drone operations in the specific category that do not fall within the open category and for which no standard scenario or PDRA applies. Many simple operations within the open category do not require a SORA.
Where can I find official information about SORA in Ireland?
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) is the competent authority responsible for drone operations in Ireland. Official information on SORA and operational authorisations can be found on the IAA’s website and from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
Can I use the EU STS route for my drone operations in Ireland?
Yes. The EU Standard Scenarios (STS) concept is part of the EASA regulatory framework and is accepted in Ireland as an operational route for certain drone operations within the open and specific categories. However, the STS route is not available in the United Kingdom, where the CAA does not recognise it.