UASOP are the approval mechanism for a variety of operations, from small platforms that exceed published limitations and requirements in DASR UAS.35 standard scenarios and Open category, to much larger experimental platforms or platforms that are unable to meet the criteria for Certified category.
Use the following DASA forms to obtain an approved UASOP.
Purpose. The DASR Form 151 presents DASA with advice that an organisation seeks to operate a UAS under a UASOP. The form extracts from the applicant the UAS operating intent, to validate that a UASOP is the most appropriate approval mechanism. The form also highlights elements the applicant must consider to begin the development around the risk controls, operating requirements and limitations that will be required for the operation, assuring that they are developed commensurate for the operation. The information presented in the DASR Form 151 by the applicant enables DASA to provide direction back to the applicant on the extent of compliance expected with DASR UAS.30 (b) requirements, or at least initial expectations and/or guidance.
Content. The DASR Form 151 contains the following:
rationale by the applicant for the UASOP
a summary of the UAS capability
an outline of the UAS operating environment and intent
a description of the operating organisation
timelines and other pertinent information.
DASA assessment. DASA will confirm receipt of the DASR Form 151 to the applicant via a response email and will begin the tailoring of a DASR Form 152 based on the submission details. The email will provide DASA points of contact as well as a timeframe to expect a formal response from DASA.
Approving authority. The capability Sponsor or Group/Command Capability Manager must sign the DASR Form 151.
Purpose. The DASR Form 152 is the tailorable UAS compliance assurance framework. This document assures DASA that the UAS organisation has the commensurate requirements in place to support the UAS operation under a UASOP.
Content. The DASR Form 152 comprises four sections:
Scope of operations. This section will offer guidance back to the applicant around what sections are DASA directed, eg registration requirements.
Risk controls and assessments. This section provides DASA the opportunity to review the applicant’s risk management.
Regulatory compliance. This section clarifies which DASR requirements, outside of DASR UAS, are applicable to the operation.
Description of the organisation. This section focuses on requirements for non-MAO and MAO entities.
DASA Assessment. An applicant may present a draft Form 152 to DASA for acceptance (generally submitted by a mature aviation organisation). Alternatively, DASA will develop the DASR Form 152 (in consultation with the applicant organisation).
Approving authority. The DASR Form 152 is a document that will have multiple reviews in its draft state. The capability Sponsor or Group/Command Capability Manager signs the final DASR Form 152 when it is ready. The signatory is normally the same appointment that signed off on the DASR Form 151.
Purpose. DASA develops the UASOP based on an assessment of the applicant’s compliance demonstration evidence and applicable risk controls.
Content. The UASOP holds the following information:
the UAS model(s) authorised to operate and registration requirements
the UASOP validity period
the approved operating areas and airspace
any requirements and limitations placed on the UAS
any management and support requirements, including any requirements to comply with DASR ARO.100, DASR ORO.10 and AMC UAS.30B(4)
detailed Initial and Continuing Airworthiness requirements, if applicable
Purpose. Applicants must submit a DASR Form 154 to DASA to seek changes to an extant UASOP.
Content. The DASR Form 154 comprises the following sections:
rationale for change (including reference to the extant UOCS and UASOP)
specific line item changes
applicant’s declaration.
DASA assessment. DASA will tailor the assurance assessment process to the extent of the proposed change, and the risk of the proposed operation. This may involve conduct of a number of assurance activities (audits, reviews, desktop assessments) or be as simple as a desktop assessment of the final submission. A successful UASOP update relies on the submission of suitable evidence.
Approving position. The capability Sponsor or Group/Command Capability Manager must sign the Form 154 prior to submitting to DASA. The signatory is normally the same appointment that signed off on the DASR Form 151 and DASR Form 152.