Guidance Material for Small Unmanned Aircraft (SUA) Permission, Pilot Competency
Certificate & Special Authorisation / Approval
Specific Operating Permission - SOP:
Small Unmanned Aircraft SOP’s are issued when a SUA / Drone / RPAS operator intends to fly
beyond the statutory limitations as detailed in SI. 563/2015 and has completed a safety course of
instruction available at SUA Registered Training Facilities. The theoretical / flight training received is
valid for two years upon completion and the SUA Specific Operating Permission is valid for a period
not exceeding two years from date of issue. The key to safe and successful Drone flight operations is
based on safety aviation philosophy, performance and risk principles through continued training and
awareness. Therefore, SOP holders are required to undergo refresher / renewal training through an
SUA Registered Training Facility within twelve months of the SOP expiry date if the intention is to
renew an expired SOP or for continuous validity of a SOP. This system is based on standard aviation
licensing and certification regimes by regulatory bodies across Europe and elsewhere.
Current SOP Operators are required to hold or use Pilot Competency Certificate holders when
operating their Drones as a condition of their Specific Operating Permission.
The SOP is valid only in the Republic of Ireland but may be accepted by other National Aviation
Authorities in Europe and elsewhere upon application. Ireland has currently no international Bi-
Lateral Agreements in place for Drone regulation. Ireland as a member of the European Union is
subject to European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) requirements, who are currently considering
Drone oversight regulatory architecture for the safety of European Citizens. This process is
conducted at many levels before becoming European Law. In the interim national regulation as
prescribed by the Irish Aviation Authority and other Public bodies, takes precedence and is subject to
legal enforcement.
The SOP application is U.F.100 which is available under the Drone Application Forms menu on this
website. For further information, including syllabi, locations and cost of training please contact the
SUA Registered Training Facilities listed in this Section on this website.
All SOP Holders are required by the Irish Aviation Authority to have current Insurance cover for third
party liability. The monetary value of insurance should be proportionate to the scope and nature of
intended use and operation.