Archive · 24 Sep 2026
ARAI Launches Drone Certification to Strengthen India’s Growing Sector
ARAI is an Indian organization that tests vehicles and other technologies.
It is now also checking whether drones are safe and work properly.
Drone makers first submit design, technical, safety, and security documents.
ARAI then examines the actual drone and tests it in flight.
The tests check things such as performance, stability, and whether the drone meets its required category.
If the drone passes, ARAI gives a statement of conformity to the aviation regulator.
This helps the drone receive type certification and a Unique Identification Number.
The service is intended to help India’s growing drone industry develop safely and more quickly.
ARAI has begun offering conformity assessment and certification services for drone manufacturers in India.
Its Unmanned Aerial Systems certification process is now fully operational under the applicable national scheme.
The two-stage process includes document verification followed by physical and flight testing.
Successful applicants receive a statement of conformity supporting DGCA type certification and a Unique Identification Number.
The initiative responds to expanding drone use in agriculture, infrastructure, logistics, mining, disaster management, and defence.
- Who
- The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), led in this announcement by Director Reji Mathai, is providing the service for drone manufacturers.
- What
- ARAI has made its conformity assessment and certification process for Unmanned Aerial Systems fully operational.
- When
- The articles do not provide a specific date; ARAI says the process is now fully operational.
- Where
- The service is being provided in India by Pune-based ARAI.
- Why
- To help drone manufacturers meet safety, performance, airworthiness, and cybersecurity requirements while supporting the sector’s growth.
- Organization
- Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI)
- Service
- Conformity assessment and certification for Unmanned Aerial Systems
- Certification framework
- Certification Scheme for Unmanned Aircraft Systems 9 (CSUAS)
- Evaluation stages
- Document verification, followed by physical and flight evaluation
- Regulatory support
- A statement of conformity supports Directorate General of Civil Aviation type certification
- Final identification
- Compliant drones may receive a Unique Identification Number (UIN)
- Target categories
- Micro, small, medium, and large drones classified by maximum all-up weight
- Demand sectors
- Agriculture, infrastructure, logistics, mining, disaster management, and defence