FTS and parachute systems for drones

Overview

FTS (Flight Termination System) and parachute systems are risk-mitigation tools that allow an aircraft to land safely in an emergency or terminate a flight in a controlled manner. They are especially important in Specific category operations over people.

An FTS automatically terminates flight when a hazardous scenario is detected (e.g. loss of control link). A parachute system slows descent, reducing potential harm to people or property.

Rules

In Specific category operations over people, an FTS or parachute system may be mandatory as a ground-risk mitigation under the SORA methodology. This is one of the technical mitigation elements that CAA evaluates in an operational authorisation application.

C5 and C6 class aircraft (used in STS-01 and STS-02) must have certain technical characteristics including the ability to reduce kinetic energy in a crash scenario. FTS and parachute are among the accepted solutions.

Licence

FTS and parachute systems are tested in the STS exam, where questions cover Specific category risk-mitigation measures. In the A2 exam, these topics may appear as contextual questions.

A certified parachute system can allow commercial operators to obtain authorisations for specific missions that would not be approved without such a system. It is an investment that unlocks additional commercial scenarios.

Next step

If you are planning Specific category missions over people, consult with FTS/parachute system suppliers and CAA regarding specific requirements. Several certified solutions are available on the market.

C5/C6 class aircraft guidance is at /blog/c5-c6-drones-sts-guide. These classes and their technical requirements are the foundation for STS operators.

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Is a parachute mandatory for an A2 operator?

No — a parachute is not required in A2 Open category. It is relevant for Specific category and STS missions where ground risk mitigation is required.

Can an FTS and parachute system be the same device?

Yes — some systems have the FTS activate a parachute as its action. In others, they are separate modules. The choice depends on aircraft size and mission type.