SWEEPING REGULATION CHANGES FOR UK DRONES

As of January 1st, the landscape for drone operators has also changed in the UK, under new Civil Aviation Authority regulations. Each drone to be sold must carry Class Marks that reflect compliance with that particular aircraft's technical and safety standards. The Class Marks are similar to those used in the EU and cover where and how the drone can be flown.

There is also an array of new regulations covering different weights of drones and their permitted proximity to people - or crowds of people. Drones carrying cameras, and weighing at least 100 grams, are also required to have a Flyer ID. A Remote ID is also required to transmit the drone's identification and its location while airborne.

The new regulations apply to drone use by hobbyists as well as professionals. The class-based regulations do not apply to drones purchased before the first of this year. They will instead operate under the weight-based rules.

For specific rules, visit caa.co.uk/drones