New drone laws have come into force today, with the Civil Aviation Authority urging users to make sure they understand the updated regulations before flying.
The changes mean more than 500,000 drone operators may now need to complete a free online theory test before taking to the skies.
Thousands of people across the UK are believed to have received drones as Christmas gifts, prompting warnings to new and existing users to check the rules.
Under the updated regulations, anyone flying a drone weighing more than 100 grams must now hold a Flyer ID obtained by passing a theory test on the Civil Aviation Authority website. The previous weight threshold was 250 grams.
The regulator said the change brings some of the most popular consumer drones into scope and is designed to improve safety awareness.
Drone owners must also register for an Operator ID with the Civil Aviation Authority.
There are additional requirements for young people. Those under eighteen must hold a Flyer ID, while a parent or guardian must have an Operator ID.
Children under twelve must be supervised by someone aged sixteen or over when flying. Children under thirteen must have a parent or guardian present when taking the online Flyer ID test.
Drone users are also being urged to fly responsibly, particularly near airports and helicopter landing sites – even when no fly zones aren’t in place.
The regulator recommends checking airspace restrictions before flying to avoid interfering with aircraft and causing disruption. You can do so with apps like DroneAssist.
The new rules also require a green light, visible from the ground at all times, to be installed on your drone when flying a night.
Jonathan Nicholson, a spokesperson at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “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.”
