Italy Retires IT-STS Scenarios; PDRA Rules Raise Training Bar

Italy moved its training framework onto the European stage at the start of 2026, retiring the domestic IT‑STS scenarios and requiring operators to run specific operations under the STS‑01 and STS‑02 Pre‑Defined Risk Assessment frameworks. The change raises the technical and documented compliance requirements for practical training and operational scenarios used by clubs, schools, and event organizers.

Regulators issued a limited exemption that allows Recognized Entities to keep using legacy, non‑class‑marked UAS for in‑person training until December 31, 2027. That concession is conditional: legacy systems must meet PDRA‑equivalent technical requirements for containment, Remote ID, Flight Termination Systems, and, where the scenario calls for it, parachute mitigation. The exemption buys time for training providers but does not waive the need to demonstrate equivalent safety measures.

Practical implications are immediate. Verify equipment meets containment expectations and that Remote ID and flight termination capabilities are installed and functioning. Confirm whether parachute mitigation is required for the scenarios you teach. Recognized Entities must document equivalence to PDRA technical standards to rely on the temporary allowance.

Budgeting and fleet decisions will be affected. Retrofitting older drones to meet PDRA‑equivalent standards can approach the cost of purchasing compliant C‑class hardware, meaning the exemption is more operational breathing room than a long‑term cost saver. Plan procurement timelines now: expect to replace legacy drones if retrofits are impractical or if total cost approaches that of new compliant aircraft.

Training curricula and assessment checklists also need updating to reflect the PDRA frameworks. Update practical scenario plans, safety cases, and student briefings to align with STS‑01 and STS‑02 requirements. Keep documentation current to demonstrate equivalence during inspections or audits.

This shift affects organizers across Europe, and particularly in Italy where the national scenarios were retired. Use the exemption window to upgrade fleets, complete technical retrofits where sensible, and restructure lesson plans for PDRA compliance. Target completion well before the exemption expiry on December 31, 2027, to avoid operational disruptions.

Verify Recognized Entity status if you intend to rely on the exemption, and maintain records proving legacy systems meet the stated technical criteria. Operational continuity now depends on clear technical evidence, timely procurement choices, and updated training practices that match the higher regulatory bar.