Mersey Reporter - #Merseybites #News

FOLLOWING a significant overhaul of aviation safety policy, new drone regulations have officially come into force on:- 1 January 2026. These changes represent a major shift in how unmanned aircraft are governed in the UK, moving away from weight-based exemptions to a more comprehensive safety net.

The updated rules affect all drones and model aircraft flown outdoors that weigh 100g or more. Under the new mandate, the user's age is no longer a factor for compliance; anyone operating a drone in this category must now complete a theory test via the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) website to obtain a Flyer ID. Previously, these requirements were reserved for heavier aircraft, but the rapid proliferation of smaller, high-performance drones has prompted this regulatory expansion.

The move follows several years of documented drone misuse, which has caused disruption at major public events and within popular tourist hotspots. By lowering the weight threshold, the CAA aims to ensure that even hobbyist pilots possess a fundamental understanding of airspace safety.

CAA Spokesperson Jonathan Nicholson commented on the timing of the rollout, noting that drones are:- "Often given as a common Christmas present and with the new drone rules coming into force this week, all drone users must register, get a Flyer ID, and follow the regulations. We want people to enjoy their drones, but it’s vital that they have checked the new rules and know how and where to operate their drone safely before they fly."

Nicholson further emphasised the responsibility of families, stating:- "It's extremely important that the public, potentially parents, take notice of the change, so that users comply with the law. We also remind existing users to brush up on changes to the rules and take the test if required."

For families who gifted drones this festive season, the CAA has clarified the age-specific requirements for minors:-

Under 18s - Can now fly and take their Flyer ID test independently.
Under 13s - Must have a parent or guardian present when sitting the online Flyer ID test.
Under 12s - Must be supervised by a person aged 16 or over at all times while flying.
Operator IDs - Regardless of who is flying, any drone over 100g must be linked to an Operator ID. For pilots under 18, a parent or guardian must register for this ID and take legal responsibility for the aircraft.

The CAA believes these changes will impact approximately half a million drone owners across the country. The goal is to simplify the legal framework, allowing for a safer and more transparent expansion of drone technology within UK airspace.

The current fee structure is:-

Operator ID - £11.79 (valid for 1 year).
Flyer ID - Free of charge (valid for 5 years).

Failure to comply with these new regulations could result in fines or the confiscation of equipment by the authorities.

To take the test, please go to the Civil Aviation Authority website.

For more information and to get help with the:- "Drone and Model Aircraft Registration Team" please email:- Drone.Registration@CAA.Co.UK or call:- 03300229930, Monday to Friday, between:- 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.