Applus+ Laboratories Interprets the Classification of UAV Export Certification in the European Union Region

So what are the current classifications of drone export certification in the EU region? How to divide it specifically? Welcome to this article from Applus+ Laboratories to learn about the classification and services of related certifications.

Classification of Drones in EU UAS Regulations

At present, the certification classification of drone exports in the EU region is mainly based on operational risks, taking into account factors such as drone system characteristics and operating environment. Drones are divided into three categories which are: open category, specific category and certified category.

Open category

Open category drones are divided into three subcategories (A1, A2, and A3) and five levels (C0, C1, C2, C3, and C4), where categories specify operational restrictions and levels correspond to different product requirements. For example, the drones can operate within a visible range (VLOS) for entertainment (or some commercial activities), and the altitude of them should be less than 120m and a maximum takeoff weight of less than 25kg. Each category of drones needs to meet specific testing requirements to obtain CE certification. 

Specific category

The export certification categories of this drone include C5 and C6 levels, as well as most drones outside the open category range. These drones have their own specific requirements for CE certification, such as for high-risk flight operations, being able to operate outside the line of sight (BVLOS) range, and flying at altitudes exceeding 120m.

Certified category

This category of drones is designed for high-risk flight operations, such as operators and potential hazardous materials, and their models are usually larger than those of open and specified categories of unmanned flight systems.

Certification requirements for drone exports in the EU region

According to EU Regulation (EU) 2019/945, drones must meet the Basic Requirements (ER) before being launched on the EU market. Manufacturers should ensure that their products meet the basic safety requirements, and EU drone export certification requires the participation of compliant announcement bodies. Applus+ Laboratories, as one of the first EU 2019/945 drone certification bodies (NB0370), has exclusive full range certification capabilities for EU 2019/945 (C0, C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6, C5 kits and remote recognition modules), which are applicable to both open and specific categories of drones.

Applus+ Laboratories also has a fully accredited drone laboratory in accordance with ISO 17025, making it a strategic partner for different categories of drone manufacturers. From entertainment drones to logistics drones, and then to the latest eVTOL drones in urban air traffic (UAM), Applus+ Laboratories' testing and certification services provide professional technical support for drone export certification. They can conduct a high-risk operational assessment (SORA) for operators and manufacturers of specific drones, helping drones better meet regulatory requirements in Europe and other regions. With the booming development of the drone industry, Applus+ Laboratories is also constantly improving related services to meet new market demands. Welcome to learn more.