From 1 January 2026, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) introduced a refreshed Drone and Model Aircraft Code. This Code applies to anyone flying drones, model aeroplanes, gliders, helicopters, or other unmanned aircraft outdoors in the Open Category.
Many of the rules are legal requirements, and breaking them can lead to fines or, in serious cases, imprisonment.
This article summarises the key points model flyers need to know.
You must have a Flyer ID if your aircraft weighs 100g or more. This requires passing the CAA’s online theory test, valid for five years. Children can take the test, but under‑13s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
You need an Operator ID if you own or are responsible for an aircraft that: - Weighs 250g or more, or - Weighs 100g or more and has a camera.
You must be 18+ to register.
Your Operator ID must be clearly labelled on every aircraft you fly.
UK Class Marks (2026 Onwards) All new drones placed on the market from 1 January 2026 must carry a UK class mark (UK0–UK6)
.Older aircraft without class marks can still be flown using **weight‑based rules**. EU C‑class drones may be flown as equivalent UK classes until 31 December 2027 (e.g., C1 = UK1)
Remote ID Requirements** From **1 January 2026**, all **UK1, UK2 and UK3** class drones must have **Remote ID** enabled. Operators receive their Remote ID through their CAA account and must add it to the aircraft before flight. --- ## **Where You Can Fly** ### **Height Limit** - Maximum **120m (400ft)** above the closest point of the earth’s surface. ### **Distances From People** - Keep **50m horizontally** from uninvolved people. - Do **not** fly over uninvolved people. - Sub‑250g / UK0 / UK1 / C0 / C1 aircraft may fly closer and overhead, but **never over crowds**. ### **Distances From Areas** - Keep **150m** from residential, recreational, commercial and industrial areas. - Sub‑250g / UK0 / UK1 / C0 / C1 aircraft may fly in these areas. ### **Airfields & Airports** - Never fly inside an **FRZ** without permission. - Endangering an aircraft can lead to **five years in prison**. --- ## **Flying Safely** Before every flight, check: - Batteries and fuel levels - Firmware updates - Weather conditions - That you can maintain direct visual line of sight At night, your aircraft must display a **flashing green light**. Never fly under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or when unwell. --- ## **Privacy and Recording** If your aircraft has a camera or microphone, you must respect people’s privacy. GDPR applies to any images or recordings you take. Think carefully before sharing photos or videos online. --- ## **Insurance** - Under **20kg** for hobby flying: insurance is optional but recommended. - **20kg and above**: insurance is mandatory. - Any commercial or paid work requires **third‑party liability insurance**. --- ## **Less Common Flying** The Code also covers: - **Follow‑me mode** (allowed within 50m) - **Model gliders up to 10kg** (height measured from pilot position) - Flying **up to 15m above structures taller than 105m** when contracted to do so --- ## **Final Thoughts** The 2026 Code brings clearer rules, new class marks, and Remote ID requirements. Following the Code ensures safe, legal flying for everyone and helps protect the future of model flying in the UK. If you’d like, I can also prepare a **print‑ready PDF version** or a **youth‑friendly summary** tailored for your club flyers.Sample text. Click to select the Text Element.