BUYER QUESTION
Official route
When an operation needs a more advanced CAA route
A cautious starting point for recognising when a drone decision may need more than a normal product comparison.
DIRECT ANSWER
If the operation, aircraft or operating environment creates a question beyond the CAA Open Category route, use the CAA’s qualification and authorisation guidance before choosing equipment around an assumption.
THE TRADE-OFF
More capability can expand what a buyer wants to do, but it can also expand the planning and competency questions. Buying first may constrain the later route.
The next sensible step
Describe the intended operation in plain language, then open the CAA qualifications and operational-authorisation guidance.
- 01Write down the operation, location and people context.
- 02Use the CAA qualification overview as the official starting point.
- 03Only compare equipment once the official route is understood.
Evidence record
Current sources, clearly dated.
Last checked . Review due .
Only after the route is clear
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