Drones (or UAS/RPAS) in the Open Category are those classed to conduct the least risky operations, which are categorized A1, A2 and A3. The drones are divided into 5 classes (C0, C1, C2, C3 and C4), and can be used recreationally, but for other purposes too. While there is considerable variation within the category in terms of the weights and operations of the drones, all Open Category UAS operate within the Visual Line of Sight, and always at altitudes of less than 120 metres.
Although they are classed to pose less of a risk than aircraft in the Specific Category or Certified Category, Open Category drones must still go through an extensive range of compliance tests, performed by a competent laboratory, to gain access to their target markets. For those in C1, C2 and C3, a Notified Body must be involved in the evaluation for the certification process.
The ideal partner for Open Category UAS OEMs and Suppliers
IN-LAB TESTING
Every Validation Test Required
From Electrics and Mechanics to Instruction Manual Revision
IN-FLIGHT TESTING
Every Validation Test Required
From Speed and Control to Geo-Awareness
CERTIFICATION
Notified Body for UAS certification under EU 2019/945
Certifying all UAS Classes, including the mandatory C1, C2 and C3
Thanks to our global network of fully-accredited laboratories and expertise in aerospace electrics, electronics, mechanics, and acoustics, as well as cybersecurity, we can perform every single validation test required for Open Category drones and we are a Notified Body for UAS certification under EU regulation 2019/945.
A complete Open Category UAS Testing Portfolio
| INDOOR (LABORATORY TESTING): | OUTDOOR (FLIGHT TESTING): |
| MTOM | Maximum Speed |
| Maximum Characteristic Dimension | Maximum Attainable Height |
| Mechanical Strength (In Lab Conditions) | Safety Controllable |
| UA Tethering System | Mechanical Strength (In Flight Conditions) |
| Impact at Terminal Velocity (In Lab Conditions) | Impact at Terminal Velocity (In Flight Conditions) |
| Minimise Injury to People (In Lab Conditions) | Minimise Injury to People (In Flight Conditions) |
| Command and Control (C2) (In Lab Conditions) | Command and Control (C2) (In Flight Conditions) |
| Sound Power | Battery Low-Level |
| Electrical Power | Lighting (In Flight Conditions) |
| Lighting (In Lab Conditions) | Flight Termination System (In Flight Conditions) |
| Flight Termination System (In Lab Conditions) | Follow-Me Mode |
| Unique Physical Serial Number (In Lab Conditions) | Low Speed Mode |
| Direct Remote Identification (In Lab Conditions) | Auto, Control Modes Conditions |
| Network Remote Identification (In Lab Conditions) | Direct Remote Identification (In Flight Conditions) |
| Geo-Awareness and Airspaces Limitation Function (In Lab Conditions) | Network Remote Identification (In Flight Conditions) |
| Manufacturer’s Instructions | Geo-Awareness and Airspaces Limitation Function (In Flight Conditions) |
| Information Notice |
Remote Testing Solutions to Keep you in the Loop
Choose Applus+ Laboratories and you will benefit from our remote testing solutions, designed to keep everyone up to speed in real-time, wherever they are. Any relevant collaborator in the project can monitor and even participate in the testing and gathering of results, depending on their assigned role.
In-Flight Tests
Verify limitation of ground speed
Class applicability:
- Max. speed: C0, C1
- Low-speed: C2, C5
Verify the restricted flying airspace zones
Class applicability:
- Geofencing: C1, C2, C3
- Geocaging: C5, C6
Verify C2 Link Loss behavior of the UA
Class applicability: C1, C2, C3, C5, C6
Verify the height of the UA is lower or equal to the maximum allowed
Class applicability: C0, C1, C2, C3
Verify drone positioning awareness
Class applicability: C1, C2, C3, C5, C6
Verify the crashworthiness of the UA
Class applicability: C0, C1, C2
Assessment of the handling quality of the UAV
Class applicability: C0, C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6
Verify means for the remote pilot to terminate the flight of the UA.
Class applicability: C5, C6
Verify Low battery level mode
Class applicability: C1, C2, C3, C5, C6
Laboratory Tests
Measure maximum take-off mass of the UAS
Class applicability:
C0, C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6
Verify sound power level and its label
Class applicability:
C1, C2, C3, C5, C6
Verify the Mechanical Strength of the UA
Class applicability: C1, C2
Verify correct functioning of lights
Class applicability: C1, C2, C3, C5, C6
Verify that DRI/NRI broadcast all mandatory information
Class applicability: C1, C2, C3, C5, C6
Apply corresponding regulations if tethered UA
Class applicability: C2, C3, C5, C6
Verify safety of the drone to not injure a person in case of collision
Class applicability: C0, C1, C2
Verify C2 Link Protection of the UA
Class applicability: C2, C3, C5, C6
Check the requirement compliance for the accessories kit allowing to transform from C3 to C5
Class applicability: C5-kit