A SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) is a risk assessment method developed specifically for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This method is required by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and provides a systematic approach to assessing and minimizing the risks associated with the use of drones.

The objectives of SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) include risk minimization, safe operation and compliance with regulations. Risk minimization is about identifying and reducing risks for people on the ground and in the air. Safe operation ensures that the use of UAS (unmanned aerial systems) takes place within an acceptable safety framework. Finally, SORA supports operators in complying with legal regulations and guidelines.

The SORA steps include a series of systematic processes to assess and mitigate the risks of operating drones.

1. Mission description: This step contains a detailed description of the planned use of the drone. This includes information on the type of UAS, the area of operation, the flight profiles and the people involved.

2. Categorization of the use: In this step, the mission is classified into a specific risk category. This classification is based on factors such as the flight location, flight altitude, flight range and population density in the area of operation.

3. Initial risk identification: The initial risk categories are determined. This includes the Initial Ground Risk Class (GRC) for ground risks and the Initial Air Risk Class (ARC) for airspace risks.

4. Risk mitigation: Risk mitigation measures are developed and implemented to reduce the identified risks to an acceptable level.

5. Evaluation of risk mitigation: The effectiveness of the implemented risk mitigation measures is reviewed. If necessary, the measures are adjusted.

6. Final risk assessment: Once the risk reduction measures have been implemented, the final risk categories for soil and air are determined.

7. Documentation and reporting: Comprehensive risk assessment documentation is prepared containing all the analyses and risk mitigation measures carried out. This documentation is submitted to the responsible supervisory authority for approval.

These steps ensure that drones are operated safely and in accordance with regulations.

The benefits of SORA include a structured approach that provides a clear and systematic process for risk assessment. It is flexible and can be adapted to different types of drone missions and operational scenarios. It also helps to increase safety for air traffic and people on the ground.