For companies conducting drone operations the Specific Category authorisation is the key to unlocking the full power of the drone. With this level of authorisation a drone company can provide the complete suite of drone operations safely and legally. As the first company in Ireland to hold such an authorisation (we literally wrote the manual) Engineers With Drones in in a great position to fulfil our clients needs.
The EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulates all drone operations in Europe. The Irish Aviation Authority takes their direction from EASA when it comes to drone regulations. Engineers With Drones is authorised by the IAA to operate drones in the EASA Specific Category. This high level authorisation is recognised and valid throughout Europe.
The Specific Category allows our pilots to operate in conditions with a higher level of risk such as over populated areas, close ot airports or over sensitive infrastructure. This authorisation shows our ability to fly commercial drones safely - even under risky conditions.
The following items are required to hold Specific Category Authorisation in Ireland:
We conducted a thorough risk assessment of our intended operations. Based on this, we planned the safety measures we follow to mitigate the risks involved and submitted this to the EASA.
Our engineers are proven to be competent pilots with remote pilot competency certificates. Across the board, we follow strict safety procedures to ensure the safety of our staff.
As the first, only, Irish drone company to get Specific Category authorisation, we have less limitations. Situations that may be deemed ‘risky’ are no problem for us - we don’t need to get case by case authorisation or plan workarounds. We face them head on.
Our engineers can operate drones in more built-up areas, or with more people around. We are less likely to encounter a situation that puts a premature end to inspections.
Engineers With Drones is committed to a positive health and safety culture within our organisation. Being authorised in the specific category is proof of our ability to safely operate drones in risky scenarios. Clearly defining the risks under which we operate is essential to mitigating those risks. Obtaining this authorisation was an essential step in ensuring a safe working environment.