According to Coptrz, the drone landscape is changing fast, with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will implement a new class marking system alongside Remote ID requirements, fundamentally changing how drone operations are categorised and monitored.
Coptrz says that these changes align the UK with international standards whilst accommodating post-Brexit regulatory independence.
In terms of why the regulations are changing, Coptrz says the UK’s airspace is increasingly shared by manned aircraft and drones, and that the CAA’s regulatory review aims to establish minimum product standards through class marks and implement Remote ID capability, enabling real-time drone identification. This framework enhances airspace safety whilst supporting the continued growth of the drone sector, providing clearer operational parameters for responsible pilots.
As well as detailing why the regulations are changing, Coptrz explains the different open category operations A1, A2 and A3, which operators need to be aware of, explains the UK class mark system, which serves as certification that a drone meets specific safety and technical standards for designated operational categories.
It also explores the rules around continued use and restriction of legacy drones, EU drone class equivalency in the UK, Remote ID – what it is and how it works, remote ID timeline and requirements, registration and pilot competency updates.
Key Dates and Transition Period (2025–2028)
Now–31 December 2025: Pre-2026 regulations apply. No UK class marks required (EU marks valid but not mandatory). Legacy drone provisions remain active under existing transitional conditions. Remote ID not required. Registration threshold remains 250 grams for Flyer ID.
1 January 2026: UK class marking commences, all new models require UK class marks (UK0–UK6) for UK sale. Class-marked UK1, UK2, UK3, UK5, UK6 drones must broadcast Remote ID. Registration threshold drops to 100 grams for Flyer ID and Operator ID (camera-equipped drones). Open A1 subcategory transitional exemption for 250–500g legacy drones with an A2 CofC ends. Legacy drones under 2kg with A2 CofC continue Open A2 operations at 50-metre separation indefinitely.
Throughout 2026–2027: Transition period for industry and remote pilot adaptation. EU class markings retain UK equivalency recognition. New products feature UK class labels. Remote pilots should prioritise Remote ID implementation and required training acquisition.
31 December 2027: Final date for automatic EU C-class recognition in the UK. Subsequently, EU class-marked drones without UK marking revert to legacy status. Manufacturers may offer UK conversion solutions.
1 January 2028: Remote ID full implementation, all remaining drones 100 grams or heavier with cameras (legacy, UK0, homebuilt, model aircraft) must broadcast Remote ID when flying. This represents full framework implementation, with the UK drone ecosystem fully aligned with class-mark and Remote ID standards.
In the blog, Coptrz also gives advice on preparing for compliance, offering a handy remote pilot’s checklist, and details how the due regulations are designed to build a safer, sustainable drone ecosystem.
Whether you need clarity on the new class marking system, support in gaining your A2 CofC, or guidance on equipping your fleet with compliant technology, Coptrz is here to help. Speak to one of its drone experts today and ensure you’re ready for take-off.
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