PDRA01 vs UK SORA: Which Route Might You Need?
PDRA01 and UK SORA are routes to a Specific Category operational authorisation, but they solve different problems. PDRA01 uses predefined limits; UK SORA assesses an operation that is not covered by those limits.
Reviewed 10 July 2026 · UK guidance
01
The simple difference
PDRA01 is a pre-defined risk assessment with a fixed operating envelope and requirements. The CAA describes it as the simplest way to apply for a Specific Category operational authorisation when the proposed activity fits those predefined conditions.
UK SORA is the risk-assessment route for most operations that are not covered by PDRA01. It evaluates the proposed concept of operations, ground and air risk, mitigations, containment and the evidence required for applicable safety objectives.
02
When PDRA01 may be relevant
The CAA describes PDRA01 as covering VLOS operations with unmanned aircraft below 25 kg in UK locations subject to airspace restrictions, including residential, commercial, industrial and recreational areas. The issued authorisation sets the exact conditions and limits.
A route checker can identify obvious mismatches, but it cannot determine authorisation. Confirm the current CAA conditions, pilot requirements, separation rules and aircraft limitations before relying on PDRA01.
03
Common signs that UK SORA review is needed
The CAA lists several examples of operations outside PDRA01 that may require a UK SORA-based authorisation. These are indicators for deeper review, not an automatic approval path.
- Beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS)
- Dropping articles or carrying out certain specialised tasks
- Operations close to crowds or outside PDRA01 separation conditions
- Flights above 120 m (400 ft) above ground level
- Swarm or multiple-aircraft concepts
- Other aircraft, population or operating characteristics outside PDRA01
04
UK SORA is not unlimited
Some concepts sit outside the policy limits of the UK SORA application service or require additional coordination. The CAA identifies examples involving very large or fast aircraft, extreme altitudes, certain dense-population combinations, dangerous goods or airspace change.
If the concept is unusual, contact the CAA early. Designing a large evidence pack before confirming that the route is available can waste significant time.
05
Choose the route before drafting the pack
Start with the concept of operations: what will fly, where, how, near whom and under which visibility and height conditions. Compare that concept with current CAA guidance and use the free checker as an initial triage aid.
Drone Ready currently generates PDRA01-style documentation support. It does not generate a UK SORA safety case, determine SAIL, or grant either form of operational authorisation.
Practical answers
Frequently asked questions
Is UK SORA a replacement for PDRA01?
No. PDRA01 remains a predefined route for operations within its limits; UK SORA is generally used when the proposed operation is not covered by PDRA01.
Does BVLOS fit PDRA01?
PDRA01 is a VLOS route. The CAA lists BVLOS as an example of an operation that requires UK SORA-based review.
Can the Drone Ready checker choose my authorisation route?
No. It provides initial guidance and warnings only. The current CAA material and the regulator's decision determine the route and authorisation.
Build your draft pack
Start with the free route check.
Answer a short set of questions, see route warnings, then generate editable PDRA01-style documentation for review. No authorisation or compliance outcome is guaranteed.
Check the proposed operation →