See below the letter sent on 7 February 2025 to all PDRA01 holders on SORA Transition. OSC holders received a very similar letter. In short:
PDRA-01 OAs are not affected by the introduction of UK SORA. No expected changes before 31 March 2026.
Introduction of UK Specific Operation Risk Assessment (UK SORA)
- UK SORA will replace the OSC methodology (CAP 722A) in Q2 2025.
- Aims to provide more transparent, structured, and consistent risk assessments for UAS operators.
- Based on JARUS SORA v2.5.
- A new digital UK SORA Application Service will streamline applications.
Differences Between UK SORA and OSC-Based Applications
- UK SORA is quantitative, reducing subjectivity in risk assessments.
- The application is online and guides users through SORA steps.
- The process is split into two phases, so all assurance evidence is not required at the start.
- An online calculator will help applicants determine necessary mitigation measures.
Impact on Current Operational Authorisations (OAs)
- Existing OSC-based OAs remain valid until expiry.
- Renewal using OSC is possible only before the UK SORA Application Service goes live.
- New applications after UK SORA implementation must use the UK SORA process.
- Two webinars will be set up directly by the CAA to guide operators.
Key Dates
- Q1 2025 – UK SORA policy published (not yet in force).
- Q1 2025 – Remote Pilot Competency Policy published.
- Q2 2025 – RAE(F) and SAIL Mark policy concepts published.
- Q2 2025 – UK SORA goes live and becomes mandatory.
Read more Regulation related news on our Regulatory Matters – News Repository
10 February 2025