C5 Classification and STS-01 Operations

By combining a Parachute Recovery System (PRS) with a Flight Termination System (FTS), operators can obtain an EASA-compliant accessory kit that enables the classification of C3-class drones as C5. This configuration allows operations in the specific category under the STS-01 scenario, in accordance with European regulations.

To obtain a C5 class label for a C2-class drone such as the DJI Mavic 3 series, the drone must be converted from C2 to C5, rather than equipped with an external accessory kit.

This conversion is performed by an authorized reseller, where an internal PRS + Flight Termination System (FTS) is installed. Once equipped with the PRS-FTS-MoC Kronos AD kit, for example, a DJI Mavic 3E becomes a Kronos AD Mavic 3E, fully compliant with C5 requirements.

Regulatory Compliance and Operational Safety

Dronavia Parachute Recovery Systems (PRS) comply with MoC 2512 for M2 mitigating means, as published by EASA. This compliance facilitates the implementation of the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) by demonstrating that the drone is equipped with a safety feature designed to significantly reduce impact energy in the event of a crash.

MoC 2512 (M2) confirms that the drone incorporates a reliable mitigation means capable of limiting ground impact, thereby enhancing safety for people and property.

As of January 1, 2024, a new drone classification, Class C5, has come into force across Europe for operations conducted in the specific category under the STS-01 scenario.

The STS-01 scenario applies to visual line-of-sight (VLOS) operations at altitudes of up to 120 meters, in both populated and non-populated environments.

To operate under this scenario in Europe, drones must obtain a C5 class label. This can be achieved in two ways: either the manufacturer designs the drone to fully meet C5 class requirements, or the operator equips an existing C2 or C3-class drone (such as the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise/Pro/ProCine, DJI Matrice 350, DJI Inspire 3, or DJI Matrice 3D) with an EASA-compliant accessory or conversion kit, enabling the drone to be reclassified as C5.

Dronavia is proud to be the first manufacturer to offer EASA-compliant accessory and conversion kits, combining a Parachute Recovery System (PRS) and a Flight Termination System (FTS), allowing drones to obtain the C5 class label and operate legally under STS-01.

To obtain a Class C5 label for a Class C3 drone (such as the DJI Matrice 350, DJI Inspire 3, or DJI Matrice 3D), simply install a Dronavia plug-and-play accessory kit combining a Parachute Recovery System (PRS) and a Flight Termination System (FTS). This kit can be installed directly by the drone operator, with no modification to the aircraft.

If the operator wishes to return the drone to its original Class C3 configuration, the PRS + FTS accessory kit can be easily removed, restoring the initial C3 class marking.

To obtain a Class C5 label for a Class C2 drone such as the DJI Mavic 3 series, the drone must be converted from C2 to C5, rather than equipped with an external accessory kit.

This conversion is carried out in Dronavia’s workshop or by an authorized reseller, where our experts install an internal Flight Termination System (FTS).

Once equipped with our internal PRS + FTS conversion kit (for example, PRS-FTS-MoC Kronos AD Mavic 3), a DJI Mavic 3E becomes a Kronos AD Mavic 3E, fully compliant with Class C5 requirements.

To achieve C5 conformity, Dronavia conducted a complete assessment of all Class C5 requirements for the integrated drone + PRS + internal FTS configuration. Unlike an accessory kit, where only the kit itself must be assessed, this approach ensures full compliance of the entire system.

Upgrading your drone from Class C3 to Class C5 does not affect your DJI warranty. If you ever need to send your drone to DJI under warranty, simply remove the PRS + FTS assembly beforehand and return the drone in its original configuration.

You retain your DJI warranty when upgrading your drone from Class C2 to Class C5. If you need to send your drone to DJI for warranty service, the entire C5 conversion kit must be removed, including the PRS and the internal FTS.

The removal of the internal FTS must be carried out by Dronavia or an authorized reseller, after which the drone can be returned to DJI in its original configuration.

A Means of Compliance (MoC) is a recognized method that allows professional drone operators and manufacturers to demonstrate compliance with EASA regulations and applicable technical standards. It provides evidence that a system or mitigation means meets the required safety and performance objectives, thereby ensuring a high level of operational safety and product reliability.

MoCs are defined and published by EASA, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, and must be met to support regulatory compliance.

Beyond the safety and quality benefits of using systems compliant with EASA-approved MoCs, such compliance significantly facilitates the preparation of a SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) or the use of a PDRA (Pre-Defined Risk Assessment). These risk assessments are required to obtain operational authorizations from the National Aviation Authority (NAA) for complex missions conducted in the specific category.

EASA has published MoC 2512 (M2) to define how drones can demonstrate compliance when equipped with a system designed to reduce ground impact energy in the event of a crash. This document applies to drone operators, drone manufacturers, and parachute recovery system (PRS) manufacturers.

MoC 2512 (M2) specifies the robustness level required for safety systems intended to operate when a drone loses control and falls to the ground. To be considered effective, an M2 mitigation system must meet three essential criteria:

• It must reduce the effects of ground impact

• It must operate reliably in the event of loss of control

• It must not introduce any additional risk

Manufacturers must declare compliance with these requirements and support their declaration with objective evidence, such as tests, analyses, simulations, inspections, design reviews, or operational feedback.

The Ground Risk Class (GRC) assessment is addressed in Steps 2 and 3 of a Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA).

Step 2 defines the intrinsic GRC, which represents the initial level of risk to people on the ground before any mitigation measures are applied.

Step 3 then identifies and applies ground risk mitigations designed to reduce this initial risk, resulting in the final GRC used for operational approval.

In a Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA), the Ground Risk Class (GRC) can be reduced by applying ground risk mitigation measures, which are divided into three mitigation stages: M1, M2, and M3.

M1 – Strategic mitigation
This stage focuses on reducing ground risk at the source by limiting exposure to people and property. Typical measures include selecting flight routes that avoid populated or high-risk areas, applying operational constraints, or using technologies that reduce the likelihood of an accident.

M2 – Impact energy reduction (MoC 2512)
M2 mitigation aims to reduce the consequences of an accident if it occurs. This is where MoC 2512 (M2) applies, by demonstrating that the drone is equipped with a robust system that reduces ground impact energy, such as a Parachute Recovery System (PRS). These systems help protect people and property on the ground in the event of an uncontrolled descent.

M3 – Contingency planning
This stage covers emergency response and recovery measures designed to manage the consequences of an accident. Examples include emergency communication procedures, defined response actions, and coordination with local authorities or emergency services.

Each mitigation stage provides a correction factor that can reduce the initial GRC. The effectiveness and robustness of the measures implemented determine the correction value applied. The more effective the mitigation, the greater the GRC reduction.

To be eligible for a SORA application, the final GRC must be 7 or lower. If the final GRC exceeds this threshold, the operation cannot be approved under the SORA framework.

There are no constraints for drone operators traveling by air. Most airlines offer the possibility of putting your Parachute Recovery System (PRS) in the hold or in the cabin with the gas cartridge (16G / 12G / 8G / 4G).

Dronavia offers Flight Termination Systems (FTS) specifically designed to operate in conjunction with its Parachute Recovery Systems (PRS). The FTS enables the immediate shutdown of the drone’s propulsion system, by cutting power to the Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) in less than one second, ensuring a safe and controlled emergency descent.

The FTS and PRS are paired and configured in Dronavia’s workshop by qualified personnel to guarantee correct and reliable operation. Activation of the FTS automatically triggers PRS deployment, and conversely, deployment of the PRS also initiates motor shutdown via the FTS. This integrated architecture ensures a coordinated response to critical in-flight events and maximizes overall system safety.

Yes. Dronavia Parachute Recovery Systems (PRS) are equipped with an independent internal battery providing up to 5 hours of autonomy. This battery can be recharged via USB-C.

For extended or continuous operations, Dronavia also provides a USB-C power cable that can be connected to the drone or to a Flight Termination System (FTS), allowing the PRS to operate with unlimited autonomy during flight operations.