A2 CofC UK Drone Regulations & Legislation 2

Question 1

Under UK open category rules, what is the default minimum horizontal distance a drone must maintain from uninvolved persons in subcategory A3?

Accepted Answer

150 m

Answer

In subcategory A3, drones must be flown at least 150 m horizontally from residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational areas. This large buffer is required because A3 covers heavier or non-class-marked drones with higher risk.

Question 2

Which document must a UK drone operator complete before conducting a commercial flight in the specific category?

Accepted Answer

Operational Authorisation (OA) or PDRA

Answer

Operations in the specific category require either a CAA-issued Operational Authorisation (OA) or adherence to a Pre-Defined Risk Assessment (PDRA) where applicable. These documents set out the specific conditions under which flight is permitted.

Question 3

What is the legal maximum altitude for drone flight in the UK open category?

Accepted Answer

120 m above ground level (AGL)

Answer

The open category maximum altitude is 120 m (approximately 400 ft) above the closest point of the surface. This limit applies unless an extended altitude is permitted in certain geographic zones or by specific authorisation.

Question 4

A drone operator flying a 350 g drone wishes to fly in open category subcategory A1. What minimum qualification do they need?

Accepted Answer

Completion of the online A1/A3 theory test with a registered NQE

Answer

To fly a drone between 250 g and 900 g in subcategory A1, the pilot must have passed the online A1/A3 drone theory test through a CAA-registered NQE and be registered with the CAA as an operator.

Question 5

When must a UK drone operator register with the Civil Aviation Authority?

Accepted Answer

When operating a drone 250 g or over, or any drone with a camera

Answer

CAA operator registration is required if you fly a drone that weighs 250 g or more, or any drone (regardless of weight) that is equipped with a camera or sensor capable of capturing personal data. Registration applies to operators, not just pilots.

A2 CofC Drone Practice Test

A2 CofC Drone Practice Test

A2 CofC UK Drone Regulations & Legislation 2