Know more about SORA

As the use of the drone (Unmanned Aerial Systems or UAS) becomes increasingly integrated into commercial, industrial, and military applications, assessing operational risks is crucial to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and mission success. A drone-specific operations risk assessment involves identifying potential hazards, evaluating their impact, and implementing mitigation measures.

Key Risks in Drone Operations

1. Airspace & Flight:

• Mid-air Collisions: Risk of UAVs colliding with manned aircraft, birds, or other drones.
• Loss of Communication (Link Failure): Disruptions in command and control signals may cause erratic drone behavior.
• Flight Control Malfunctions: GPS loss, software glitches, or sensor failures affecting stability and navigation.

2. Environmental & Weather:

• Adverse Weather Conditions: Strong winds, rain, fog, or extreme temperatures affecting drone performance.
• Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): High-voltage power lines, radio towers, or other sources disrupting GPS and communication signals.

3. Human & Operational:

• Pilot/Operator Error: Misjudgment, poor training, or delayed responses leading to crashes.
• Unauthorized or Reckless Flying: Non-compliance with aviation laws, flying in restricted areas, or beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS).
• Payload Risks: Malfunctions or improper loading of cargo, cameras, or sensors affecting flight stability.

4. Data Risks

• Unlawful or not competent access to drone controls or navigation errors.

5. Ground & Infrastructure:

• Crash/Landing Incidents: UAS falling due to battery depletion or system failure, causing property damage or injuries.
• Interference with Critical Infrastructure: Drones unintentionally interfering with power plants, airports, or communication networks.