The Department for Transport (DfT) has sponsored the CAA to review regulation for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the UK, to identify and recommend improvements to the regulatory framework.
In August 2023, the CAA published a Call for Input (CAP 2569) that set out 15 opportunities to improve UAS regulation. The Call for Input received 2,629 responses, which validated our view that there are opportunities to improve UAS regulation. However, feedback also provided support for some of the key foundations of regulation we have retained from EU legislation, such as operational categories and class-marking. We therefore developed proposals to maintain existing regulatory structures, and to address targeted safety, security or user concerns.
In November 2023, the CAA published our Review of UK Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Regulations consultation (CAP 2610). The consultation set out proposals to simplify regulation, deliver greater education for UAS users, improve safety and security, and support the UAS sector transition to new regulations. The consultation closed in January 2024 and received 3,499 responses.
In May 2025, we set out our final policy recommendations in our Review of UK UAS Regulation, Consultation Reply (CAP 3105) (opens in a new tab).
Alongside the publication of our consultation reply, we submitted our formal Opinion and Instruction Document to the DfT.
Our policy recommendations aim to support the UAS sector to grow by simplifying regulations, enabling innovation through UK class marking, and ensuring a smooth transition to new requirements. We aim to reduce red tape, allow continued use of existing devices, and create a world-leading regulatory framework that balances safety and security with industry growth.
In October 2025, amendments to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 and Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 were made via The Unmanned Aircraft (Amendment) Regulations 2025 statutory instrument. This confirms the previously announced changes to UAS regulations that will come into force on the 1 January 2026.