What is STS-01? Standard Scenario for VLOS Operations Explained.

STS-01 is a Standard Scenario that allows drone operations in the 'specific' category without requiring a complex risk assessment and expedites regulatory approval using a declaratory process. STS-01 involves drone operations conducted in Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) over a controlled ground area in a populated or sparsely populated environment.

Operational Characteristics

Level of Human Intervention

• No autonomous operations are allowed
• Remote pilots must maintain control of the UA at all times
• Only one UA can be operated per remote pilot
• Operations from moving vehicles are prohibited
• Control handover to another command unit is not permitted

Ground Control and Area Requirements

• Operations are conducted over a controlled ground area.
• The ground area must be under the control of the UAS operator.
• All persons in the controlled ground area must be informed of the risks.
• Explicit consent is required from all participants in the operation.
• Operations may be located in a populated environment.

UA Range and Visibility Requirements

• The remote pilot must maintain visual contact with the drone at all times.
• Flight visibility must allow the remote pilot to conduct the entire flight in a visual line of sight (VLOS).
• Maximum ground speed is limited to 5 m/s for untethered UA.

Operational Area Structure

• The operational area consists of three distinct zones:
  • Flight geography (the actual flight area).
  • Contingency volume (minimum 10m beyond the flight geography).
  • Ground risk buffer (distance depends on operational height and weight).
• The control ground area should have a radius equal to the tether length plus 5 meters for tethered UA operations.

UA and Flying Limitations

• Maximum characteristic dimension (wingspan, rotor diameter, etc.) of less than 3 meters.
• Maximum Take-Off Mass (MTOM) of less than 25 kg.
• The drone must carry a C5 Class Identification Label (CIL).
• It must be electrically powered.

Height and Airspace Restrictions

• Maximum height is limited to 120 meters from the closest point of the Earth's surface.
• Height may be increased up to 15 meters above obstacles taller than 105 meters when flying within 50 meters horizontal distance.
• Operations in controlled airspace require coordination and flight authorisation.
• Operations in uncontrolled airspace may have limitations set by Member States.

Ground Risk Buffer Requirements

• Ground risk buffer minimum distances vary based on maximum operational height (10/30/60/90/120m AGL) and MTOM (below/above 10kg). 
• Ground Risk Buffer implementation should always consider the "1:1 rule".

UAS Operator Responsibilities

Documentation and Planning

• Develop a comprehensive operations manual.
• Define the operational volume and ground risk buffer.
• Implement security and data protection measures.
• Create guidelines to minimise nuisance to people and animals.
• Develop and validate an Emergency Response Plan (ERP).
• Upload updated information into the geo-awareness function.

Operational Procedures

• Ensure the controlled ground area is in place and effective before operations.
• Inform all persons in the controlled ground area about operation risks.
• Ensure an adequate level of performance for any externally provided service.
• Keep records of UAS operations for at least 3 years.

Remote Pilot Requirements

Qualifications and Training

• Hold a "Remote Pilot Certificate of Theoretical Knowledge for STSs".
• Complete a practical skills training course for STS-01.

Technical Conditions

UAS Requirements

• Carry a C5 Class Identification Label (CIL).
• Have an active and updated direct remote identification system.

Declaration Process

• UAS operators must submit an operational declaration to the competent authority.
• The declaration confirms compliance with STS-01 requirements.
• The authority issues a confirmation of receipt and completeness.
• No explicit authorisation is required.

Contact Us Today

Navigating the STS-01 requirements can be challenging for drone operators. Our company provides comprehensive training for remote pilots, consultancy services for operational planning, and assistance in preparing operations manuals compliant with STS-01 requirements. Contact us today to ensure your drone operations are safe, compliant, and efficient under the STS-01 standard scenario.

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Your drone does not carry C5 CIL? Learn more about PDRA-S01 here.