In the UK, the rules for flying a drone depend on the aircraft’s weight or class, where you intend to fly and how close you will be to people. Most low-risk flights sit in the Open Category, divided into A1 (Over People), A2 (Near People) and A3 (Far from People). The practical starting point is to identify your drone’s class or weight, check which IDs apply, then match your flight to the relevant sub-category. The CAA’s current Open Category guidance includes changes that took effect on 1 January 2026.
Start with the drone’s weight, class and required IDs
For aircraft weighing 100g to less than 250g without a camera, an Operator ID is optional; below 100g, both IDs are optional and a Flyer ID is recommended. The Operator ID must be labelled on the aircraft. Check the CAA’s registration requirements for the full weight-and-camera breakdown.
A Flyer ID is gained by passing the CAA theory test. These IDs are separate: one demonstrates pilot knowledge, while the other identifies the operator.
From 1 January 2026, new drone and model aircraft models placed on the UK market must have a UK class mark, from UK0 to UK6. Older aircraft can still be flown under the Drone Code rules that apply to their weight. A drone with a European C class mark can be flown as its corresponding UK class until 31 December 2027; for example, C0 can be treated as UK0.
Choose the Open Category sub-category that fits your flight
From 1 January 2026 until 31 December 2027, C1 aircraft can also be flown in A1. The CAA’s A1 rules explain the aircraft and distance conditions.
A2, Near People: This is for UK2 aircraft, and C2 aircraft until 31 December 2027. You need a Flyer ID and an A2 Certificate of Competency. With UK2 or C2, keep at least 30m from uninvolved people, reduced to 5m when flying in low-speed mode, and do not fly over them. The CAA also lists a separate A2 route for aircraft under 2kg that are not UK2 or C2: keep at least 50m from uninvolved people and do not fly over them. See the CAA’s A2 requirements and its pilot competency guidance.
A3, Far from People: Eligible aircraft include UK2, UK3 or UK4, privately built aircraft under 25kg, and aircraft under 25kg placed on the market before 1 January 2026. C2, C3 and C4 aircraft can also be flown in A3 until 31 December 2027. Keep at least 50m from uninvolved people and do not fly over them. Stay at least 150m from residential, recreational, commercial or industrial areas. An individual building at least 50m from other buildings is not treated as one of those areas, but you must still keep at least 50m from it. The CAA’s A3 rules give the aircraft and location conditions.
Core flying rules and location checks
For Open Category flying, keep the aircraft in direct sight with a full view of the surrounding airspace, stay at or below 120m (400ft), avoid restricted airspace, and do not carry dangerous goods or drop articles. The A1 rule also prohibits flying over crowds.
At night, a drone or model aircraft must have a green flashing light switched on. Before setting off, check that the person or organisation responsible for the land allows take-off and landing there. The CAA also says pilots must respect privacy and avoid causing a nuisance. Read the CAA’s location and safety guidance before choosing a launch site.
Work, insurance and flights beyond the Open Category
A Specific Category flight requires a CAA Operational Authorisation.
For recreation or sport, insurance is optional. If you fly for a reason other than recreation, sport or a hobby, you need at least third-party insurance. The CAA’s general flying guidance and work-flying guidance set out these insurance conditions.
The Drone Code overview was last updated in March 2026.
Leave a comment