UK Drone Regulations & Legislation Flashcards
6 cards from real A2 COFC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 UK Drone Regulations & Legislation flashcards as text
Which of the following correctly defines 'uninvolved persons' in UK drone regulations?
Answer: People not participating in the drone operation and not aware of the associated risks
Uninvolved persons are those not participating in the UAS operation and who have not given informed consent accepting the risks. Crew members, participants in a defined area who are briefed and accept risk, are 'involved persons' and different rules apply.
Under UK regulations, in which open category subcategory is it permitted to fly directly over uninvolved persons (with a compliant drone)?
Answer: A1
Subcategory A1 permits flight over uninvolved persons with C0 or C1-class drones (or legacy sub-250 g drones). However, flying over assemblies of people is prohibited even in A1. A2 requires 30 m horizontal separation and A3 requires 150 m.
What is the key difference between the open category and the specific category of drone operations?
Answer: The specific category requires a CAA operational authorisation or PDRA because the risk is higher
The specific category covers operations with elevated risk that cannot be conducted under the simpler open category rules. An Operational Authorisation (OA) or compliance with a Pre-Defined Risk Assessment (PDRA) is required, and a full risk assessment (SORA or PDRA) must be completed.
A pilot wishes to fly a drone over a public event with large crowds. Which category of operations does this most likely fall under?
Answer: Specific category with operational authorisation
Flying over or near large gatherings of people is prohibited in the open category regardless of drone class. Such operations require a specific category authorisation from the CAA, with a thorough risk assessment demonstrating how risks to the public will be managed.
What is the purpose of the UK Drone Safe Register?
Answer: It is not an official CAA register — CAA registration is done via the CAA portal directly
The Drone Safe Register is a third-party industry initiative, not the official CAA registration system. Official CAA drone operator and flyer registration must be completed through the CAA's own online portal at register.caa.co.uk.
Under the ANO 2016, what is the maximum penalty for flying a drone dangerously in the UK?
Answer: Unlimited fine and up to 5 years imprisonment
Dangerous flying of a drone is an offence under the ANO 2016. Courts can impose an unlimited fine and up to 5 years in prison. This reflects the serious potential consequences of a drone strike on a manned aircraft or people on the ground.