Automated drones: The SORA methodology, a secure framework for monitoring sensitive sites.

In Europe, the professional use of drones is now based on a risk-based approach. The more complex a mission is—be it beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) flights, automation, or operations in sensitive environments—the more rigorous the regulatory assessment.
It is in this context that the SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) methodology comes into play, now at the heart of the authorization process for advanced drone operations.

In Europe, the professional use of drones is now based on a risk-based approach. The more complex a mission is—whether it involves beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) flights, automation, or operations in sensitive environments—the more rigorous the regulatory assessment.
It is in this context that the SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) methodology comes into play, now at the heart of the authorization process for advanced drone operations.

Not all drone operations carry the same level of risk. One-off flights at low altitude do not involve the same risks as daily automated surveillance over an industrial site.

• The flight environment
• Risks on the ground and in the airspace
• Operational and technical procedures
• the system’s level of automation
• the security measures in place.

Each SORA application thus results in a long-term authorization for a specific scenario: missions can be repeated without having to reapply for authorization for each flight.

Automated drones are taking things to the next level: they are no longer just ad-hoc tools, but strategic assets integrated into security systems. Thanks to the SORA authorization, operators benefit from:

• Operations that are properly supervised and compliant, and have been approved by aviation authori
• 24/7 monitoring without on-site
• Fast security verification mission
• Reduced staffing requirements and ope
• Improved reliability and consistency of

Azur Drones’ Skeyetech perfectly exemplifies this evolution: a proven, autonomous, secure, and reliable technology.

Obtaining a SORA authorization is based on a detailed analysis of the proposed operational scenario and its environment.

An automated surveillance project involves several steps. These include analyzing operational requirements, conducting a site environmental assessment, taking into account airspace restrictions (CTR), and finally defining operational procedures and safety measures tailored to the site.

The goal is to demonstrate that operations can be carried out safely and under control under the anticipated conditions.

As part of the projects carried out with Skeyetech, Azur Drones supports its clients throughout the entire process—from feasibility studies and preliminary regulatory analyses to the preparation of the authorization application for submission to the relevant aviation authorities.

By enabling recurring, secure, and sustainable drone operations, the SORA methodology is transforming aerial surveillance.
Drones are becoming a central component of industrial security. They are capable of conducting scheduled patrols, detecting anomalies in real time, and enhancing coverage of critical sites.

With Azur Drones, this vision is already a reality: automated operations that comply with European requirements and are technically and regulatory sound, ensuring the security of sensitive sites.