This is a companion topic for our recent blog post on blog.unmanned.tech
The UK drone landscape is set to undergo a bit of a facelift come January 1, 2026, as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) introduces a new class marking system. This isn’t just a cosmetic change; it aims to categorise drones in a manner that enhances operational flexibility, particularly for those indulging in leisure flying or low-risk commercial activities. The finer details are still in the pipeline, so hold onto your hats—or drones, rather—while we wait for the CAA to work its regulatory magic.
You might be wondering what exactly these class markings entail. In essence, they’ll serve as certified labels on drones, indicating compliance with safety features, performance capabilities, and various technical requirements like remote identification. Think of it as the drone’s very own version of a passport—only less likely to get lost in the post.
For those operating under the Open Category, expect to see more defined subcategories (A1, A2, A3) which will dictate where you can fly and around whom. Currently, we’re muddling through a somewhat less organised system based on weight and transitional provisions, but with the new regulations, clarity may finally be in sight.
While the transition won’t happen overnight—there’s talk of a period stretching into 2028 for full compliance—the potential benefits are hard to ignore. A clearer set of rules could mean fewer headaches for pilots and manufacturers alike, not to mention the promise of greater freedom for those piloting drones under the magic 900g mark. So, keep your eyes peeled for updates from the CAA and prepare for a rather interesting flight path ahead.
Read the full post over at: