UK SORA Regulations Explained: CAA Decision No. 60 – A Complete Guide for Drone Operators

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued Decision No. 60, a wide-ranging revision of its regulatory guidance for specific-category drone operations. The update places the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) framework at its centre, systematically refreshing everything from crash-risk mitigation strategies to airspace containment mechanisms.

What Is the UK SORA Framework?

SORA is a risk-assessment methodology originally developed by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Following Brexit, the UK retained and has continued to localise the framework. It applies specifically to Specific Category drone operations — those that fall between the lower-risk Open Category and the higher-risk Certified Category.

Operators applying for a Specific Operations Authorisation (SpOA) must submit a comprehensive risk-assessment package under the SORA framework to demonstrate that their operation meets acceptable safety standards.

Key Changes in Decision No. 60

Crash Risk Mitigation Measures

The new rules set out clearer requirements for ground-risk mitigation. Operators must present concrete and workable contingency plans covering loss-of-control or system-failure scenarios, including:

• Technical mitigations: Active safety systems such as parachute recovery systems and automatic return-to-home functions
• Operational mitigations: Flight-path planning and the designation of ground exclusion zones
• Ground Risk Class (GRC) assessment: Tiered classification based on population density and environmental characteristics of the operating area

Airspace Containment and Air Risk Mitigation

To address mid-air collision risk, Decision No. 60 updates the criteria for determining the Air Risk Class (ARC) and requires operators to adopt isolation measures proportionate to the operating environment:

• Clear definition of operational airspace boundaries
• Strengthened coordination mechanisms with manned aviation
• Mandatory use of Remote ID and Detect and Avoid (DAA) technology where required

Operational Risk Model (SAIL Rating)

The SORA framework uses the Specific Assurance and Integrity Level (SAIL) to produce a composite operational risk score. SAIL levels run from I to VI; the higher the level, the more stringent the required safety assurance measures. Decision No. 60 makes detailed adjustments to the compliance requirements for each SAIL level, improving consistency across the assessment process.

Practical Implications for Drone Operators

The revision has real consequences for all operators in the UK that currently hold, or are applying for, a Specific Operations Authorisation:

1. Review of existing authorisations: Operators holding authorisations issued under previous rules should assess whether their operations comply with the updated requirements in Decision No. 60.
2. Documentation updates: Risk-assessment documents, operations manuals, and safety management plans may all require revision.
3. Changes to new applications: Fresh applications must be submitted under the updated SORA framework and will be assessed against more stringent criteria.

Conclusion

CAA Decision No. 60 marks a significant milestone in UK drone regulation for specific-category operations. For operators providing commercial drone services in the UK, a thorough understanding and implementation of the latest SORA framework is not only a basic compliance requirement — it is also fundamental to flight safety and commercial credibility. Operators are advised to monitor official CAA announcements closely and, where necessary, seek guidance from specialist aviation regulatory consultants to ensure their operations remain current.

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Source: UK Civil Aviation Authority (UK CAA) official publication

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