In this article, you will learn:
1. What the Critical Area Assessment Tool (CAAT) is and what it is used for (Release: 17.09.2024).
2. What the Critical Area means in SORA (Ground Risk) – standard value vs. more precise calculation.
3. How CAAT standardizes the calculation and reduces complexity for operators.
4. Background: EASA IAM Hub, Drone Strategy 2.0, funding by the EU Commission.
What is the Critical Area?
The Critical Area is a central parameter for determining the Ground Risk in SORA. Operators can use the standard value or perform a more precise calculation to potentially prove a lower ground risk class – however, the many influencing factors make this complex.
What Does the CAAT Offer?
The digital tool of the EASA IAM Hub standardizes the calculation of the Critical Area, reduces complexity, and supports UAS operators in correctly dimensioning the ground risk and fulfilling documentation requirements in authorization procedures.
Background & Goal
CAAT is part of the EASA Innovative Air Mobility (IAM) platform, which brings together cities/regions, authorities, operators, and manufacturers to promote safe, efficient, sustainable implementation. The project is a core action of the Drone Strategy 2.0 and was funded via a contribution agreement from the EU Commission.
Conclusion
The CAAT simplifies the determination of the Critical Area, strengthens SORA compliance, and supports the harmonized, safe execution of drone operations in the EU.
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