Most drones and model aircraft that are placed on the market after 1 January 2026 must have a UK class mark, from UK0 class to UK6 class.
Drones and model aircraft must meet specific requirements before they can be given a class mark. The requirements cover factors such as weight, technical functions and safety features.
Drones and model aircraft sold or distributed before 1 January 2026
If you got your drone or model aircraft before 1 January 2026, it's unlikely to have a UK class mark. You can still fly it, but you must follow the regulations based on the weight of your drone or model aircraft.
Checking if your drone or model aircraft has a UK class mark
Look for a UK class mark label on your drone or model aircraft.
European C class marks
If your drone or model aircraft has a C class mark on it, the manufacturer has declared that it meets the European class standards.
Until 31 December 2027, you can fly a C class aircraft as if it is the corresponding UK class. For example, you can fly a C1 class drone as if it is a UK1 class drone.
If you would like to fly C5/UK5 or C6/UK6 class drones, you must get authorisation from the CAA (opens in a new tab).
Overview of UK class mark requirements
The table shows an overview of the key requirements.
Full details are in [UK Regulation (EU) 2019/945] .
Class |
Operational Category |
Weight |
| UK0 | Open Over People (A1) | Less than 250g |
| UK1 | Open Over People (A1) | Less than 900g |
| UK2 |
Open Near People (A2) Open Far From People (A3) |
Less than 4kg |
| UK3 | Open Far From People (A3) | Less than 25kg |
| UK4 | Open Far From People (A3) | Less than 25kg |
| UK5 | Specific | Less than 25kg |
| UK6 | Specific | Less than 25kg |