Conformity assessment
A conformity assessment refers to evaluating whether a product, system, or service complies with all legislative requirements before it is placed on the market. In the context of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or Drones, this assessment is crucial to ensure their operation is safe, efficient, and by established regulations and standards.
Within the European Union (EU), conformity assessment is integral to the CE marking process. This procedure involves testing, inspection, and certification to guarantee that UAS/Drones meet the relevant regulatory requirements before being sold. That’s why many UAS/drone manufacturers opt for a conformity assessment through a Notified Body to complete this process successfully.
ALTER as Notified Body
In 2022, ALTER has become the first Notified Body in Europe accredited to assess conformity to UAS/Drones under DR (EU) 2019/945 for UAS/Drones intended to be operated in the open category and Direct Remote ID Add-Ons. We are widely acknowledged for our commitment to support and collaborate closely with manufacturers and operators in their pursuit of testing and certification for their products.
We have successfully conducted various EU Type Examinations for UAS/Drones, mainly for those aircraft for which this Examination is mandatory (Classes C1, C2, and C3).
EU Type Examination
The EU Type Examination is a crucial step in the Product Conformity Assessment process conducted by a Notified Body. Specifically, for UAS/Drones, this Examination tests, evaluates, and certifies a particular type of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) or Drone to ensure it meets the safety and performance requirements set by the European Union Safety Agency (EASA).
In this context, ALTER, as the first Notified Body in Europe, has successfully carried out various EU Type Examinations for UAS/Drones within the applicable classes. We have developed efficient testing campaigns in accordance with the current versions of the prEN 4709 standards. It’s worth noting that some of these standards are still in the draft phase, and future changes may be implemented.
At ALTER, we have the capabilities to conduct EU Type Examinations for UAS/Drones falling under the Open Category and for DRI Add-Ons. It’s essential to note that this Examination is mandatory for classes C1, C2, and C3.
Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
As part of the Conformity Assessment, the manufacturer or authorized representative must draw up a Declaration of Conformity (DoC). This is a formal statement confirming that their product complies with relevant standards and regulations. It is important as it demonstrates the product’s adherence to safety and quality requirements, facilitating market acceptance, ensuring consumer protection, and supporting regulatory compliance.
In the case of UAS/Drones which are intended to be sold and operate within the European Union, manufacturers should add to their DoC the requirements set by EASA in the Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 – Annex Part 11 as applicable.
Make a complete Conformity Assessment for the safety of your system. We can help you to perform a whole UAS/Drone testing and certification campaign, where you will find a complete service to get your aircraft in the EU market and more.
UAS/Drones FREE Guide
Our comprehensive guide provides manufacturers and operators with essential steps for testing, certification, and compliance. Download now “How to get your Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) into the European market” guide for insights on regulatory framework, CE Marking, and crucial testing procedures to certify your UAS for safe and legal operation in Europe.
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Class Identification Label (CIL)
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