Avtrain and ANRA Technologies Partner to Support UK Operators with Automated Risk Assessment Platform
Avtrain and ANRA Technologies UK Ltd have announced the launch of SORA-Mate, an automated risk assessment platform designed to help UK drone operators comply with the new SORA 2.5 regulations. This announcement comes as the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) implements SORA 2.5 on April 23, 2025, marking a significant change in how complex drone operations are approved and managed.
Meeting the Challenge of New UK Drone Regulations
Drones are transforming industries across the UK, from infrastructure inspection to emergency services. However, operators face growing regulatory challenges as the CAA adopts the JARUS SORA 2.5 framework. This update is especially important for those planning complex missions outside the Open category’s limitations.
SORA 2.5 will become an Accepted Means of Compliance with UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947. As a result, operators must adapt quickly to new requirements. The CAA’s Digitising Specific Category Operations (DiSCO) project is also modernizing how applications are submitted, moving from manual processes to a digital platform. SORA-Mate supports this shift by providing web-based tools and templates for operational manuals, emergency response plans, and safety management systems.
SORA-Mate: Proven Technology, Local Expertise
SORA-Mate was first launched in Australia and New Zealand in partnership with Hover UAV. Now, Avtrain and ANRA Technologies are bringing a version tailored for the UK market. The platform combines advanced software with expert consulting, making it easier for operators to meet regulatory standards and complete risk assessments.
Amit Ganjoo, Founder and CEO of ANRA Technologies, said: “Our partnership with Avtrain represents a significant advancement for the UK drone industry. By integrating Avtrain’s regulatory expertise with our proven SORA-Mate platform, we’re delivering a solution that simplifies compliance while ensuring the highest safety standards for UK drone operations.”
Key Features and Benefits
SORA-Mate offers several advantages for UK drone operators. It generates web-based, comprehensive risk assessments aligned with UK SORA 2.5 requirements. The platform automatically processes complex operational data to determine ground and air risks and identify mitigation strategies. It calculates Specific Assurance and Integrity Levels (SAIL) and assesses operational safety objectives. SORA-Mate also provides templates for operations manuals, emergency response plans, and .KML file development. Additional services include BVLOS customized procedures and SORA reviews before submission. The tool reduces the time needed to complete risk assessments, improves approval rates, and reduces delays by ensuring applications meet all CAA requirements.
Julie Garland, Founder and CEO of Avtrain, explained: “At Avtrain, our mission has always been to encourage prolific drone operations while keeping the skies safe through the highest standards of training, certification and regulatory compliance. This partnership with ANRA Technologies will allow us to deliver on that mission by providing UK operators with a powerful tool that simplifies the complex regulatory landscape while maintaining rigorous safety standards.”
A Timely Solution for Regulatory Change
The launch of SORA-Mate is timed to support operators as SORA 2.5 takes effect. The tool helps those planning operations in the Specific category or looking to convert their existing Operational Safety Case (OSC) to a SORA 2.5 Operational Authorisation.
Julie Garland added: “With UK SORA 2.5 entering into force on April 23, operators need immediate solutions to adapt to the new requirements. SORA-Mate tool provides exactly that – a streamlined pathway to compliance that reduces administrative burden while ensuring operations meet all safety objectives with support available every step of the way.”
SORA-Mate will be available to UK drone operators in early May 2025 through flexible subscription plans. Avtrain will also offer specialized consultancy services for those needing extra support or training with their applications.
Avtrain and ANRA Technologies will introduce the platform at Airspace World and host launch webinars throughout May 2025. Operators interested in learning more or registering for the launch webinar can visit the official SORA-Mate website.
SORA-Mate’s arrival marks an important step for UK drone operators, providing a clear, efficient path to compliance as the regulatory landscape evolves.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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