Guidance for Operators: Mastering EASA Open and Specific Categories for Unmanned Aerial Systems - Understanding Role and Utilizing Essential Tools
Training Requirements for UAS Operators Under EASA Regulation
Under the EASA Regulation (EU) 2019/947, the training requirements for Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) operators differ based on the operational category—Open or Specific.
Open Category
This category covers low-risk operations and typically requires the remote pilot (UAS operator) to complete theoretical training and pass an online exam corresponding to the class of UAS being flown. The training focuses on basic operational knowledge, safety rules, and airspace awareness to ensure safe operations in uncontrolled environments. No specific practical training certificates are mandated at the EU regulatory level for Open category operations, but practical knowledge is implied.
Specific Category
Operations here involve higher risks and generally require an operational authorization from the competent authority. AMC3 UAS.SPEC.050(1)(d) specifies that remote pilots must complete operational-scenario-specific training, which includes both theoretical and practical training tailored to the type of operation and the UAS involved. This training can be conducted by recognized entities or declared operators under Appendix 4 of the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947. Training certificates, especially for recognized standard scenarios (STS), are valid for five years and require renewal through refresher courses or retaking of exams. Practical training is essential for demonstrating proficiency in the operational scenarios defined by the authorization and ensures that pilots can safely manage increased operational complexity and risks.
The Open Category is divided into three subcategories: A1, A2, and A3. The A1 subcategory allows drone flight over people but not over assemblies, while the A3 subcategory allows drone flight far from people. The A2 subcategory allows drone flight close to people. For A1/A3 subcategories, the online training and exam must be completed via the National Aviation Authority (NAA). For the A2 subcategory, additional self-practical training is required.
To facilitate safe drone operations, our website offers a range of tools and guidance for operators. The website DOC automates the entire training lifecycle from onboarding to audit, supports custom training programs, and offers role-based competency mapping. It also logs simulator hours, supervised flights, or self-practical training (A2) and provides alerts for expiring credentials.
For operators requiring a Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA), the training becomes modular and depends on the Specific Assurance and Integrity Level (SAIL). Our website Consultancy can help set up SORA-compliant training frameworks, draft custom Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Operations Manuals, and align organizational training with national and European regulations.
The website DOC also integrates Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Operational Manuals (OM), linking training modules directly to the OM and flagging missing training before mission approvals. Operators must maintain documentation and manage expiry dates for certificates, which are valid for 5 years.
In summary, Open category operators must complete basic theoretical training and pass an online exam, while Specific category operators must undertake more comprehensive and operation-specific theoretical and practical training validated by an operational authorization process and documented through training certificates that are valid for a fixed term and require periodic renewal.
- Under EASA Regulation (EU) 2019/947, training requirements for Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) operators vary based on the operational category—Open or Specific.
- The Open Category, which covers low-risk operations, demands remote pilots to complete theoretical training and pass an online exam corresponding to the class of UAS being flown, focusing on basic operational knowledge, safety rules, and airspace awareness.
- In the Specific Category, operations involving higher risks, remote pilots must undergo operational-scenario-specific training, including both theoretical and practical training tailored to the type of operation and the UAS involved.
- The website DOC, designed to facilitate safe drone operations, automates the entire training lifecycle, logs simulator hours, and provides alerts for expiring credentials.
- For operators requiring a Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA), the training becomes modular and dependent on the Specific Assurance and Integrity Level (SAIL).
- In sports, education-and-self-development, finance, business, technology, and the industry sectors, adhering to safety rules and compliance with regulations, such as EASA Regulation (EU) 2019/947, is crucial for team management and effective flight operations.
