At the start of 2026, the United Kingdom’s drone regulatory framework underwent one of the most significant overhauls in recent aviation history. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) implemented a modernised set of rules designed to enhance safety, accountability, and traceability in a landscape where drones are used for everything from recreation to professional operations. For EU pilots and enterprise operators planning to fly drones in the UK, these changes are important to understand because European certificates and operator numbers no longer grant automatic access under UK law. 

In this blog we will break down the key elements of the new regime: what’s changed, what’s required, and how overseas operators can ensure compliant flights in the UK under the updated framework.

A New Classification System: UK0 to UK6

One of the biggest structural changes is the introduction of a UK‑specific class marking system for drones. From 1 January 2026, all new drones placed on the UK market must carry a UK class mark ranging from UK0 to UK6, similar in intent to the European C‑class marks used under EASA. 

The class marking system groups aircraft according to safety and performance characteristics. For example:

• UK0 and UK1 generally cover lightweight, low‑risk drones.

• UK2 and above introduce heavier or more capable drones that have additional operational implications.

Importantly for EU operators, existing European C‑class markings will be recognised as equivalent to the corresponding UK class until 31 December 2027. That means a drone with a C1 mark can be treated as UK1 for nearly two years, giving pilots and operators time to transition without immediate equipment changes. 

After 2027, non‑UK class marked drones will be treated as “legacy” and will fall under specific transitional rules until full compliance is required.

Lower Registration Thresholds and Mandatory Flyer ID

Another major shift is the change in registration and competence requirements. Previously, UK rules required registration and a Flyer ID only for drones weighing 250 g and above. Under the 2026 regime, this threshold has been lowered to 100 g. 

In practical terms:

• Anyone planning to fly a drone weighing 100 g or more must first pass a CAA online theory test to obtain a Flyer ID. This free test demonstrates basic knowledge of safe and legal drone operation.

• The Operator ID, which is the UK equivalent of the EU operator number, must be obtained by the owner or responsible organisation of the drone if it has a camera and weighs 100 g or more, or weighs 250 g or more regardless of camera equipment. 

It is important to note that EU remote pilot certificates and operator numbers are not recognised in the UK. EU holders of A1/A3 or A2 certificates will still need to obtain UK Flyer IDs and Operator IDs to fly legally. 

Remote ID: A Digital “License Plate” in the Sky

Remote Identification (Remote ID) is another cornerstone of the new UK rules. Similar to trends seen globally, Remote ID enables enforcement, airspace services, and other authorised bodies to identify and track drones in real time by receiving identification and position data broadcast by the drone. 

Under the UK framework:

• From 1 January 2026, Remote ID is mandatory for drones equipped with UK class marks (UK1, UK2, UK3, UK5, and UK6). 

• From 1 January 2028, the requirement will expand to cover the majority of legacy and unmarked drones with cameras weighing 100 g or more, ensuring broad compliance across the user community. 

Remote ID functions as a digital license plate, broadcasting details like the drone’s identity and location, which enforcement bodies can use to ensure accountability and safety.

Operators are encouraged to set up Remote ID early, even if enforcement is phased in over a few years. 

Age and Supervision Rules

In recognition of the growing diversity of drone users, the new rules include specific provisions for young operators. UK pilots under 18 years old can obtain a Flyer ID and fly independently, but younger children (under 12) may only operate drones under the supervision of someone aged 16 or older. Parents or guardians of children attempting the online test must also be registered and possess an Operator ID. 

This reflects the UK CAA’s effort to balance safety, inclusivity, and education for new pilots.

What the Changes Mean Practically

For EU operators, the implications are clear:

• You must register with the UK CAA and obtain both Flyer ID and Operator ID to fly legally in the UK if your aircraft and flight fall under the applicable weight and equipment categories. 

• European certificates do not automatically apply in the UK, even if you hold current A1/A3 or A2 qualifications. 

• Remote ID will become part of everyday operations, and operators should plan ahead for compliance before the full 2028 rollout. 

These changes were designed to improve safety, accountability, and airspace awareness in increasingly busy skies, while also fostering innovation and integration with emerging services. 

AirHub Perspective: Supporting Cross‑Jurisdictional Compliance

From an operational and regulatory standpoint, navigating different regimes across Europe and the UK highlights the importance of compliance tools and expert support.

At AirHub, we help operators:

• Monitor regulatory differences between EU and UK frameworks

• Plan operations compliant with both EASA and UK CAA requirements

• Manage pilot qualifications and registrations, including Flyer ID and Operator ID tracking

• Integrate Remote ID and other safety requirements into flight planning and execution

Whether you are flying for enterprise missions, inspections, public safety tasks, or recreationally, our software and consultancy services make it easier to stay compliant in multiple jurisdictions - without guesswork.

Final Thought

The UK’s 2026 drone rules are a landmark moment in unmanned aviation, marking a shift toward enhanced identification, accountability, and safety for all users. EU operators should take note and act early to ensure lawful flights in UK airspace.

If you are planning cross‑border operations or need help aligning your fleet with new UK and EU requirements, the AirHub team is ready to help.