The UK Civil Aviation Authority has confirmed it will recommend that the government implements a set of updates to the UK’s drone regulations following extensive consultation. Reflecting feedback from drone users, the CAA says the changes will support the safe expansion of drone use while making it easier for users to understand and follow safety rules.

Recommendations include clearer, simpler rules for drone operations, including renaming sub-categories in the ‘open’ category to make it more obvious what they allow and replacing exemptions related to ‘toy’ drones with a new limit of 100g. They also include increased education requirements, with free online mandatory Flyer ID training extended to users of drones over 100g and improvements to make guidance more user friendly.

The plans also cover the introduction of drone product standards via class-marking to improve safety and security from the point of manufacture, and implementation of Direct Remote ID requirements to enable a drone to broadcast identification and location data.

Kevin Woolsey, head of remotely piloted aircraft systems at the CAA, said: “These changes represent a major step in creating a regulatory framework that is ready for the future – supporting safe, responsible drone use while enabling the sector to grow and innovate.

“We’ve listened carefully to the drone community to develop an approach that simplifies the rules, strengthens safety and security, and helps the entire sector transition smoothly to new standards. Our ambition is to establish the UK as a world leader in unmanned aircraft regulation, where users are empowered to operate safely, and the sector has the clarity and flexibility it needs to thrive.”

The updated framework follows engagement with the drone community through an earlier call for input and a formal public consultation, which received almost 3,500 responses. Additional contributions were received from the Home Office and police. The CAA says it will now work with the Department for Transport to implement these changes in legislation and will then communicate more information on the changes and timescales.

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