Regulatory requirements for unmanned aircraft imposed by the authorities are very strict and are based on EU-wide legislation, which is overseen in Finland by the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom). The strictness of the regulations depends directly on the drone’s weight, intended use, and operating location.

When conducting beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flights, operations move from the “Open” category to the “Specific” category. This category requires an authority-approved risk assessment (SORA), an operations manual, and a separate operational authorization from Traficom. The level of risk directly determines which rules, permits, and safety requirements apply to the operation. The higher the risk level, the stricter the oversight and training requirements become.

Ground risk increases with population density. Air risk, in turn, is highest near airports and busy airspace. To minimize operational risks, we have restricted the use of our system to sparsely populated areas, where the benefits of delivery drones are also greatest.

Such operations require authorization from the national aviation authority, which in Finland is Traficom. Due to lengthy processing times, obtaining authorization can take quite a long time, potentially more than six months. Lentola is well acquainted with the application process and assists its customers in applying for the necessary authorizations. We sometimes also work with consultants to make the process as fast and straightforward as possible for our customers.

Visual line of sight (VLOS) flights are possible without an operational authorization under the Specific category, in accordance with the general regulations governing drones. For more information, visit Traficom’s Electronic Drone Service.