Which type of UAS operation requires a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA)?

The requirement for a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) stems from the necessity to ensure safety and compliance with regulations, especially in operations that may pose greater risks, such as commercial flights over populated areas.

When conducting commercial operations in such environments, the potential for risk to people and property increases significantly. Therefore, the FAA mandates that operators of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) seek a COA to obtain explicit authorization before proceeding with these types of flights. This authorization indicates that the operator has met certain safety guidelines and has a plan in place to manage the increased risks inherent to flying over populated areas.

In contrast, recreational flying during daylight, adverse weather operations, and training flights under supervision may fall under different regulatory frameworks that do not require the same level of scrutiny and authorization as commercial operations over populated areas. These activities often have their own sets of rules but generally do not include the same risk factors that necessitate a COA.