UK Airspace and CAA Compliance for FPV

The UK Drone Regulatory Framework

Since January 2021, the UK operates under the CAA's drone registration and competency system. FPV flight is treated as flying without direct line of sight — which has implications for where and how you can legally operate.

What You Need

• Operator ID: Required if your drone is 250g or over, or has a camera (regardless of weight). Register at the CAA portal. Renew annually. Display the ID on the aircraft.
• Flyer ID: The online theory test. Required to fly. Must be renewed every 3 years.
• A2 CofC: The A2 Certificate of Competency allows you to fly closer to uninvolved people in the A2 operational category. Required for most commercial work in populated environments.

FPV-Specific Rules

Flying FPV (eyes-off) means you are not maintaining direct unaided visual line of sight. Under CAA rules, FPV-only flight requires either:

• A competent observer who maintains VLOS and can warn you of conflicts, or
• Operating within a controlled environment under a specific OSC (Operational Safety Case).

Checking Airspace

Use the NATS AirSpace app or Drone Assist before every flight. Key restrictions to look for:

• ATZ (Aerodrome Traffic Zones) — 2nm radius around aerodromes. Permission required from ATC.
• Restricted airspace (danger areas, prohibited zones) — shown in red on the map.
• Temporary airspace restrictions — NOTAMs that may not be on the map yet.

Insurance

Third-party liability insurance is legally required for commercial operations. The BMFA and FPVUK both offer affordable cover that satisfies the requirement.