Updated: 8 December 2025
Please note: The information contained in this chapter broadly outlines the regulations as defined and overseen by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and should only be used as a guide. Its aim is to improve awareness of unmanned aircraft use in and around events and crowds but it is recommended that further research and professional advice is sought to be fully aware of the regulations and implications of not following the law.
The use of the terms unmanned aircraft (UA), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), small unmanned aerial vehicle (SUAV) and drone for the purposes of this chapter means any unmanned aircraft as defined by the CAA. A full introduction to these systems can be found here Drones | Civil Aviation Authority (caa.co.uk)
This document concentrates on commercial flight activities. Readers are advised to communicate with the CAA and the British Model Flying Association www.bmfa.org for any advice related to recreational or demonstration flying, as these fall under separate regulations