UK Civil Aviation Authority
United Kingdom
Register or certify firstFlyer ID and Operator ID are common requirements
Plan on getting UK-specific CAA IDs before arrival. Overseas registrations are not recognized, and most travel photographers need an Operator ID.
The trip, step by step
- Bring it
- No normal tourist import registration, but the CAA ID rules apply to visitors who fly.
- Register it
- Register through the CAA Drone and Model Aircraft service for Flyer ID and Operator ID.
- Fly it
- Flyer ID is required from 100 g. Operator ID is required for 100 g+ drones with a camera and for all 250 g+ drones.
- Map check
- Use CAA guidance and airspace apps such as Drone Assist before flying.
Before you travel
- 01Check whether your drone needs a Flyer ID, Operator ID, or both.
- 02Complete the CAA registration and education service.
- 03Check Flight Restriction Zones, local landowner rules, privacy expectations, and the night lighting rule.
Operating notes
- Max altitude
- 120 m / 400 ft AGL in the Open Category.
- Commercial work
- Low-risk commercial flights can often fit the Open Category. Higher-risk work needs Specific Category authorization.