IRELAND · Standard Scenarios
When do you need an operational manual for STS-01 and STS-02 drone operations?
If you operate drones in Ireland under the European Union’s Specific category, understanding when an operational manual is necessary is crucial—particularly for Standard Scenarios STS-01 and STS-02. These predefined operational frameworks simplify drone flights under set conditions, but Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) rules and EASA regulations require appropriate documentation to ensure safe, compliant operations. This article guides UAS operators on how to prepare and maintain the correct operational manual in line with these standards.
What are STS-01 and STS-02?
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) defines Standard Scenarios (STS) within the Specific category to allow drone operations under pre-set, risk-mitigated conditions. STS-01 and STS-02 serve different types of operations with specific drone classes and environments:
STS-01 covers drone flights within the Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) over a controlled ground area in populated settings, specifically using a C5-certified UAS. This scenario includes operational and technical safeguards designed to reduce risks.
STS-02 involves Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations with the use of airspace observers monitoring a controlled ground area in sparsely populated locations, exclusively with a C6-certified UAS. Because BVLOS flights carry additional risks, STS-02 imposes stricter observer deployment and communication requirements.
Operators who meet all scenario parameters can conduct flights under an operational declaration, which removes the need for an individual operational authorization (OA).
- STS-01: VLOS operation over controlled ground area in populated environment using C5 drone
- STS-02: BVLOS with airspace observers over controlled ground area in sparsely populated environment using C6 drone
The importance of the operational manual for STS-01 and STS-02
While the operational declaration formally suffices to conduct STS flights, EASA regulations mandate that UAS operators maintain comprehensive operational documentation. This documentation must clearly define operational procedures, training, communications, and emergency response steps.
An operational manual (also termed operations manual or Emergency Response Procedures – ERP) ensures consistency in safety management and regulatory compliance. For STS-01 and STS-02, this manual usually contains:
- Clear roles and responsibilities for operational personnel
- Step-by-step procedures for pre-flight and in-flight checks
- Management protocols for the controlled ground area and communication with observers specific to STS-02 operations
- Defined responsibilities and crew management
- Detailed preparation and flight procedures
- Communication and emergency protocols
- Maintenance scheduling and training records
- Operations documentation and flight logs
When is an STS declaration not enough and a PDRA or SORA is required?
If your operation, drone, or environment deviates from all STS-01 or STS-02 requirements, you may not rely on the standard scenario declaration. Instead, you must conduct a tailored risk assessment through a Pre-Defined Risk Assessment (PDRA) or the more comprehensive Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) process.
Both PDRA and SORA require you to produce a detailed operational manual aligned with the assessed operational risks and specific flight details. Additionally, you need to develop a Concept of Operations (ConOps) and apply for the appropriate Authorization or Registration Certificate (ARC), depending on your Specific Assurance and Integrity Level (SAIL).
Operators in Ireland should verify with the IAA if any additional national requirements apply to their operational documentation or procedures.
- Strict compliance with STS parameters needed for operational declaration
- PDRA or SORA required when using different drones, environments, or operational profiles
- Operational manual mandatory for all PDRA and SORA assessed flights
Practical advice for assembling your STS-01 and STS-02 operational manual
Use structured guidance and checklists, such as those provided by DroneManual, to develop or update your operational manual. This helps ensure your documentation is complete, well-organised, and aligns with regulatory expectations.
Stay informed about updates to the EASA Easy Access Rules and IAA national regulations, integrating any changes into your manual promptly. Key aspects to cover include:
- A clear explanation of the selected STS scenario and applicable conditions
- Risk management and incident handling procedures
- Training standards and competence record-keeping for crew members and observers
- Adopt standard templates and checklists for consistency
- Monitor regulatory developments regularly
- Ensure thorough documentation of responsibilities and all procedures
- Keep detailed records of training and incident management
IAA’s role and requirements for Irish UAS operators
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) oversees implementation of Specific category operations in Ireland and enforces national extensions to EASA rules. It reviews operational declarations for correct use and compliance.
Although STS-01 and STS-02 flights may proceed under an operational declaration without a formal OA, the IAA emphasizes that operators must maintain comprehensive documentation, including a detailed operational manual.
Failure to comply with documentation requirements or operational conditions may result in enforcement actions including operational restrictions. Operators are advised to keep their manual current and accessible for audit or inspection. This strengthens adherence to regulatory safety standards and demonstrates professional compliance.
- IAA supervises compliance with STS conditions
- Operational declaration does not substitute for full documentation
- Operational manual essential for proving compliance during inspections
Frequently asked questions
Is an operational manual mandatory for STS-01 and STS-02 operations in Ireland?
An operational declaration is sufficient if all conditions are met, but operators must document all operational procedures in an operational manual. This manual provides evidence of compliance and supports safe, consistent operations.
What should an operational manual for STS operations include?
It should define personnel responsibilities, preparation and flight procedures, communication protocols, technical checks, training records, incident handling, and maintenance schedules to support safe and compliant flights.
Can I rely on an STS declaration if my drone is not C5 or C6 certified?
No. STS-01 and STS-02 are explicitly tied to C5 and C6 certified drones. Using other drones requires conducting a PDRA or SORA risk assessment and following their respective approval processes.
Does the IAA have extra requirements for STS operational manuals?
Yes. The IAA emphasizes documenting communication strategies, monitoring of controlled ground areas, deployment of airspace observers, and maintaining a comprehensive Emergency Response Plan (ERP).
How can DroneManual help in preparing my operational manual?
DroneManual provides organised examples and checklists aligned with current European and Irish regulations, simplifying the creation and maintenance of your operational manual and improving its quality and completeness.