Schiebel Receives Light UAS Operator Certificate

Schiebel has become the first unmanned aerial system (UAS) operator in Europe to receive the Light UAS Operator Certificate (LUC) for its CAMCOPTER S-100 unmanned aircraft from Austrian airspace regulator Austro Control.

Under the new European Union (EU) regulatory framework for civil UAS operators, these LUCs can be awarded by national aviation authorities. Schiebel is the first UAV operator in Europe to successfully demonstrate and meet the requirements for the certification awarded by Austro Control. The requirements are set according to the (EU) 2019/947 directives on the rules and procedures for the operation of unmanned aircraft.

The LUC enables Schiebel to self-authorise operations, within the defined scope and privileges, in civil airspace without needing to apply for authorisation. These operations include commercial drone flights, test flights, and training flights for pilots. The LUC, which is also valid in the European Union and EASA member states, provides further opportunities for flying in civil airspace by allowing the operators to take responsibility for their operations, making the whole process more efficient and structured. The certification process includes a thorough review of the operator’s safety, compliance, and management system. Special focus is put on the qualifications of personnel and the handling of operational aspects.

Hannes Hecher, CEO at Schiebel, commented: “Schiebel is an innovative company that is always one step ahead. We are very proud to be the first organisation in Europe to hold the LUC. Being awarded the LUC as first UAS operator in Europe is another important milestone in our company history. Within the scope of the approval conditions, we are now able to self-authorise missions Europe-wide such as monitoring of supply lines, disaster control, border security, and environmental protection.”

Valerie Hackl, Managing Director at Austro Control, said: “By issuing the first LUC in Europe to Schiebel, Austro Control has shown to be a reliable and innovative partner for the Austrian aviation industry when it comes to the fast and efficient implementation of new regulations. With this Certificate Austro Control provides Austrian companies such as Schiebel with an early competitive advantage and enables them to strengthen their international market position.”

Magnus Brunner, Austrian State Secretary for Aviation, said: “Congratulations to the Schiebel Group for receiving the LUC and achieving a milestone as the first company across Europe. This is a great example of innovation made in Austria and a leap for the aviation manufacturing industry. It proves that the cooperation between industry and authorities, in particular with the certifying Austro Control, is well established and aims at supporting innovation and international market leaders.”

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