Drone exam · Payloads, dangerous goods, and special operations

An EU operator wants to carry dangerous goods whose release in an accident could create a high risk for third parties. Why is that not an ordinary Open category payload decision?

Answer

Open category UAS may not carry dangerous goods. High risk dangerous goods carriage can fall into the certified category, while lower risk carriage in the specific category still requires the applicable risk assessment and authorization.

Explanation

Dangerous goods risk can change the regulatory category because an accident may harm people or the environment beyond the aircraft impact itself.