Changing drone operating category

Overview

Operators sometimes find their plans outgrow Open-category limits — they need to fly over people, at night or BVLOS. Moving from Open to Specific category is a structured process requiring additional documentation and a TKA authorisation.

A category change is not a one-way transition — you can conduct both Open and Specific category operations if you hold the relevant authorisations. Many commercial operators hold different permits for different mission types.

Rules

Moving to Specific category requires: 1) drafting an operations concept (ConOps), 2) conducting a SORA risk assessment, 3) demonstrating appropriate pilot competency, 4) obtaining a TKA operational authorisation.

Standard Scenarios STS-01 and STS-02 provide a structured path into certain Specific-category operations — simpler than an individual Specific application. STS requires A2 as a prerequisite and a separate STS exam.

Licence

A category change does not require surrendering your existing certificate. If you hold A2, you can continue using it for Open-category operations while applying for STS or Specific authorisation for specific missions.

TKA Specific authorisations are issued for a specific operation or operation type, not to the pilot as an individual. This means each new type of operation may require a separate authorisation application.

Next step

If you are planning operations that exceed A2 limits, first assess whether STS-01 or STS-02 covers your scenarios. The STS path is faster and more standardised than an individual Specific application.

STS versus Specific category guidance is at /blog/sts-01-vs-sts-02-guide. A2STS prepares you for the STS exam after passing A2.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fly under both Open and Specific category with the same aircraft?

Yes — this depends on the aircraft class and applicable authorisations. Many operators hold multiple permits across different categories and select the appropriate one before each mission.

How long does a Specific category authorisation take?

TKA evaluates each application individually. Simple applications may be processed in a few weeks; complex BVLOS or over-city applications can take several months.