Embention, the first company specializing in drone autopilots to receive APDOA approval

Embention becomes the first company specializing in drone autopilots to earn APDOA certification from EASA—gaining the authority to design certified, aviation-grade systems once reserved for manned aircraft. The future of autonomous flight begins now, with Embention leading the way.

Embention has become an EASA-approved aeronautical design organization

Tech company Embention has officially been approved as an APDOA (Alternative Procedures to Design Organization Approval) by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), under the approval number EASA.AP537. This recognition makes Embention the world’s first company specializing in drone autopilots authorized to design certified aeronautical components under the stringent ETSO (European Technical Standard Order) standards—the highest level of technical requirement in civil aviation.

This milestone marks a historic achievement for both Embention and the drone industry, paving the way for a new era of standardization and technological maturity. With this advancement, Embention became the first company globally, focused on avionics systems for drones, to earn such recognition.

Initial scope: Autopilot design under ETSO-C198

In this initial phase, the approval granted to Embention specifically covers the ETSO-C198 standard, which pertains to the design of the AFGCS (Automatic Flight Guidance and Control System), commonly known as an autopilot. This standard applies to critical systems used in manned aviation.

Thanks to this APDOA designation, Embention is now officially authorized by EASA to design products that meet the highest airworthiness requirements outlined in Part 21 of Regulation (EU) 748/2012, the key regulatory framework in Europe for aviation safety and certification.

In-house design and manufacturing: full autonomy as a certified manufacturer

The APDOA approval for Embention has been granted almost simultaneously with POA (Production Organization Approval) certification from the Spanish Aviation Safety Agency (AESA). This dual certification enables Embention to both design and manufacture its certified autopilots entirely in-house, without relying on third parties. The combination of these approvals ensures complete control over the entire process—from design to production—enhancing product quality, reliability, and traceability. This level of technical and production autonomy positions Embention as a benchmark in the development of certified critical systems for both unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and manned eVTOLs.

Embention advances toward ETSO certification for Veronte Autopilots

Embention is currently the only company specializing in drone autopilots under EASA oversight authorized to apply for and obtain ETSO authorizations for

autopilot systems (ETSO-C198).

This achievement, along with its POA certification, underscores Embention’s commitment to safety and innovation, solidifying its leadership in the development of critical systems for unmanned and manned vehicles. As the next step, the company is actively working to obtain ETSO certification for its Veronte Autopilot system—a decisive move toward its integration as a certified critical system.

A global benchmark in the evolution of the UAS industry

With this approval, Embention not only strengthens its position as a technology leader but also sets a precedent for the entire drone sector by applying manned aviation standards to drone component design. The company is now at the forefront of the shift toward a safer, standardized future for drones.