If any of the requirements of the "open" category are not met, the flight automatically falls into the "specific" category.
In this case, approval from Austro Control is required before operation. The "specific" category allows flights that exceed the standard requirements of the "open" category, such as Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights, flights with drones over 25 kg, or flights with drones over 4 kg in populated areas.

Typical use cases for this category include camera flights over cities or inspections of infrastructure.

What needs to be considered before applying for an operational authorization in the "specific" category? 

Operations within the "Specific" category can only be conducted after a risk assessment has been completed. This analysis, known as SORA (Specific Operation Risk Assessment), is either carried out and published in advance by the relevant authority or prepared by the operator. More information can be found here.
 
The application for an operational authorization must be submitted using the designated application form.
A risk assessment (SORA) must be attached to the application. Details on how to prepare this assessment can be found in the Easy Access Rules of EASA. These guidelines, along with the necessary application forms, are available in the Downloads section.
 
If the operation falls under a Standard Scenario, a risk assessment has already been conducted for the specific type of operation, and the necessary safety measures and requirements have been predefined.
 
In this case, the operator does not need to conduct a separate risk assessment.
It is sufficient to declare compliance with the relevant Standard Scenario and confirm adherence to the established requirements. Once the declaration is received, Austro Control will confirm the submission, and the operation can begin.
The required declaration forms are also available in the Downloads section.

Important notice

In certain areas (e.g., zones around airports and airfields, flight restriction zones, etc.), flights may only be conducted with prior approval from Austro Control or other relevant authorities, even after a "specific" category operational authorization has been granted.
 
Please note that fees may apply in accordance with the ACGV (Austrian Civil Aviation Charges Regulation).
A map of these restricted areas and further details can be found here and in the  Austro Control Dronespace System.
 



Which flights can't be conducted in the "specific" category? 

The "certified" category is intended for drone operations where the risk level is comparable to manned aviation. This category includes mandatory certification of the aircraft.
 

The following types of flights automatically fall under the "certified" category:

  • Transport of passengers
  • Transport of hazardous materials
  • Flights over crowds with drones larger than 3 meters

The regulations for the "certified" category are still under development at the European level. As a result, operational authorizations for these types of flights can't currently be issued.

Weiterführende Informationen zum europäischen Regulativ finden Sie auch auf der Homepage der EASA.
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Flights in the "specific" category

You can find more details on operating your UAS within the "specific" category in our webinar.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the "Specific" category mean?
This category applies to drone operations that exceed one or more limitations of the Open category — for example, flights above 120 metres or operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). In such cases, an operational authorisation must be obtained from Austro Control. To apply for this authorisation, a risk assessment of the intended operation must be submitted in accordance with applicable regulations.
As an alternative to applying for authorisation, a declaration may be sufficient if a risk assessment has already been conducted for the intended operation and published as a so-called standard scenario (STS).
Operators who hold a Light UAS Operator Certificate (LUC) may conduct flights without separate operational authorisation, provided these flights fall within the privileges granted by the certificate.
What must a remote pilot demonstrate in order to operate in the Specific category?
The required training depends on the complexity of the operation. The extent of training is determined based on the risk assessment submitted with the authorisation application. There is no one-size-fits-all requirement — training must be appropriate to the assessed risk level.
When is the Certified category relevant for me?
The Certified category is intended for drone operations where the risk level is comparable to that of manned aviation. Certification of the drone is mandatory in this category. Certification is always required if the aircraft is used for the transport of people or dangerous goods.