scope:

Purpose of This Order.

This order establishes procedures for issuing special airworthiness certificates in the experimental category or special flight permits to unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and manned aircraft integrated with UAS technology. For the purposes of this directive, manned aircraft integrated with UAS technology are referred to as optionally piloted aircraft. Aircraft intended to be flown as either an optionally piloted aircraft (OPA) or UAS will be given the designation "OPA/UAS." The terms "UAS," "OPA," and "unmanned aircraft (UA)" are further defined in appendix F, Definitions, to this order.

Note: The use of the word "should" throughout this order refers to a recommended practice. The associated activity is not a requirement; therefore, a record of completion is not required.