If you want to carry out operations with more than one model or type of unmanned aircraft, you may decide you want to apply for:
- a single operational authorisation that covers the different models of unmanned aircraft
- separate operational authorisations for each of the different unmanned aircraft you want to use
You can use the calculator to explore different options before deciding which approach is best for you.
Use the characteristics with the highest intrinsic risk when calculating your SAIL and containment levels
If you want to use different models or types of unmanned aircraft, you must calculate your SAIL and containment levels using the characteristics with the highest intrinsic risk.
Example
In the example shown in the table, the operator must use:
- the maximum dimension for aircraft A, 5.1 metres
- the maximum speed for aircraft C, 120 m/s
Aircraft |
Maximum dimension |
Maximum speed |
| Aircraft A |
5.1 metres |
75 m/s |
| Aircraft B | 0.5 metres | 35 m/s |
| Aircraft C | 2.4 metres |
120 m/s |
Calculating your operational volume and ground risk buffer
If you want to use different models or types of unmanned aircraft, your operational volume and ground risk buffer must be appropriate for all unmanned aircraft.
You must provide information for each unmanned aircraft when you give details of your operational volume and ground risk buffer.
Meeting the same requirements
All unmanned aircraft included in your authorisation must meet the same UK SORA requirements to the same level of robustness.
For example, if you claim the ground risk mitigation 'M2 Reducing the impact dynamics of unmanned aircraft' at medium robustness, all your aircraft must meet that mitigation.
Meeting the requirements
Whenever you need provide details about your unmanned aircraft in your application, you must provide details for each aircraft and make it clear which aircraft the details relate to.