Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to do when I have brought a drone as a hobbyist?
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You must register your aircraft @ register-drones.caa.co.uk
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Download, read and understand the Drone code:
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Take the online theory test to obtain flyer ID – register-drones.caa.co.uk Children under 13 years can still get a flyer ID, but must have parent guidance. This is to ensure you understand and follow the drone code before you fly.
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For Drones that weigh over 250g. you must obtain an operator ID you must be over 18 years old for this. register-drones.caa.co.uk cost for an operator ID is £10.33 valid for 1 year.
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We would advise to download Drone assist app on your phone to ensure that you are flying in a safe area and following the drone code at all times. Ensure you always have the landowners permission.
Drone that do not require registration
When do I not need to register a drone with the CAA?
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The Drone is an indoor drone only.
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Doesn’t have a camera and weighs under 250g.
Airspace Categories
What are airspace categories?
There are 5 classes of airspace categories within British airspace. They are A, C, D, E and G. ATC (Air traffic control) clearance is required to enter the controlled airspace classes (A, C, D and E) and the necessary flight rules and air traffic services must be adhered to.
Can I fly a toy drone anywhere outside?
You must follow the CAA Drone code at all times. Do not fly higher than 400 feet (120 meters) and maintain line of sight with your drone. You are not permitted to fly in restricted airspace with out obtaining permission. This includes a 5-kilometre radius from airports. You must keep 50 meters away from people not involved in your drone flying. Ensure you have the landowner’s permission.
Can my neighbour fly a drone over my garden?
Drones weighing 250 grams or more must be flown 50 meters horizontally away from groups of people and 150 meters away from residential, recreational, commercial and industrial sites. Drones lighter than 250 grams can be flown at residential, recreational, commercial and industrial sites, but must be flown safely (Follow CAA Drone code at all times) please also keep in mind also “ Paragraph 20 of The Drone and model aircraft code states that a drone user is likely to breaking UK data protection law if a drone fitted with a camera or listening device is used where an individual can expect privacy.” Respect privacy rights and always have the landowner’s permission for take off and land.
How old do you have to be to fly a drone under 250 grams?
In the UK Drone operators must be at least 12 years old to fly independently. Drones are not permitted to fly higher than 400 feet (120 meters) Operators must maintain line of sight with their drone at all times. Permission required before flying in restricted airspace.
Best place to fly a drone as a hobbyist in the UK?
Wide open spaces are great for flying drones. So, farmland and beaches are ideal. Always have the landowner’s permission before you fly and note that some nature reserves and national trust parks are general no fly zones and permissions required. Check on their web sites on Drones rules and regulations before flight.
Airspace Categories
Flying Drones to assist your business you will need to:
I want to fly my drone for business, what do I need to do?
- Sub 250g. over drones require further training such as: A2 c of c, GVC, OSC
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You will need to have relevant insurances (EC785/2004)
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You require approval from the CAA
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You are required to carry out a flight plan for each flight operation and obtain relevant permissions for each location.
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