The Light UAS Operator Certificate (LUC) is an optional certification for UAS operators, granting its holder various operational privileges. The LUC serves as proof that the operator is capable of independently assessing the risks and complexity of their operations, implementing risk mitigation measures, and ensuring operational safety at all times.
 
The requirements that UAS operators must meet are outlined in Part C of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947. Following a successful evaluation of compliance with these requirements, an LUC can be issued, and specific privileges may be granted to the operator. These privileges may allow the LUC holder to authorize certain operations without requiring approval from the competent aviation authority.
 
Before applying for an LUC, the operator must establish, implement, and maintain a Safety Management System (SMS) appropriate to the size of the organization and the nature and complexity of its operations. To achieve safety objectives, the organization must define processes and clearly assign responsibilities.

A significant difference between an LUC and an operational authorization lies in the privileges granted within the LUC framework. The assignment of privileges follows a step-by-step approach, depending on the maturity level of the UAS operator's organization. A fundamental privilege under an LUC includes the ability to conduct UAS operations based on an existing operational authorization. The scope of privileges can be gradually expanded over time.

Before applying for an LUC, we encourage you to contact us at dronespace@austrocontrol.at, so we can provide you with tailored information regarding the application process and requirements.
 
Important: The LUC holder is only permitted to conduct UAS operations without separate approval if these operations fall within the scope of the privileges defined in the LUC conditions.
 
 
The LUC remains valid indefinitely, provided that the organization continues to comply with its requirements. Ongoing compliance is verified internally within the organization and externally through LUC audits conducted by Austro Control. Failure to maintain compliance will result in the revocation of the LUC.
 
 
Application Process for the Light UAS Operator Certificate (LUC)
Graphic showing six steps for obtaining a LUC (Light UAS Operator Certificate) from Austro Control – from pre-application and document review to the certification phase.

General Requirements:

LUC applicants must demonstrate that their organization conducts operations in a structured manner and applies the fundamental elements of a Safety Management System (SMS) to ensure safe operations. The following key criteria must be met:
 
  • At least one approved operation within the specific category.
  • Competence in Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 and the ability to conduct a risk assessment following the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) methodology (AMC1 Article 11 of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947).
  • An appropriate Safety Management System (SMS) to effectively identify, mitigate, and manage potential aviation risks.
  • Personnel must possess the required remote pilot competencies, as well as skills in planning, implementation, maintenance, and management. Additionally, they must be competent in daily operations, risk analysis, and documentation.
  • Maintenance and administration of a documentation system, including keeping a record of relevant operational data, which must be accessible to the competent aviation authority upon request.
  • An operational LUC safety manual, covering the safety policy and objectives, clearly defining roles and responsibilities within the organization in relation to UAS operations. The manual must also document procedures and activities, including emergency procedures.
 

Generic Operational Authorization or LUC?

A generic operational authorization, which does not define specific operational locations, may provide certain privileges. With a generic authorization, a UAS operator can plan and conduct multiple operations within the conditions and limitations of the authorization, without needing to apply for a new authorization for each operational area. However, the use of generic operational authorizations is limited to a maximum initial GRC of 3 and a maximum initial ARC of ARC-b.
 
A LUC, however, offers greater flexibility than a generic operational authorization. It grants UAS operators different levels of privileges, including the ability to plan new types of operations or use different UAS models without prior approval from the aviation authority.
 
Key Differences: Generic Operational Authorization vs. LUC
The advantage of a generic operational authorization compared to LUC privileges is that the operator is not required to implement a full Safety Management System (SMS), including processes, roles, and competencies. For low-risk operations (such as PDRA or SAIL I/II), an SMS may be disproportionate.
 
However, as the risk and complexity of an operation increase according to SORA, and as compliance with operational conditions becomes more difficult to verify, more robust processes and organizational structures are required to maintain safety.
 
A LUC becomes necessary when the operational risk is significantly higher, and an LUC management system is required (starting from SAIL IV) to ensure compliance with the operator’s procedures through an independent verification process.
 

When is an LUC More Relevant than a Generic Authorization?

A LUC may be more suitable in the following cases:
 
  • For operations with SAIL ≥ 4, due to Operational Safety Objective (OSO) #1, which requires the UAS operator to be competent and/or proven at a high level of robustness.
  • For operations with SAIL ≥ 3, when applying: Strategic ground risk mitigation (M1) or Strategic air risk mitigation (Step 5), to ensure that the applicant has the necessary safety culture to conduct location-based risk assessments.