Key changes to UK drone regulations in 2025: What operators need to know

New UK drone regulations are starting to be implemented from 2025, with full enforcement expected by 2026. Failing to comply could ground your operations. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and what you need to prepare for.

Introduction of drone class marking

Starting January 1st, 2026, the UK will implement drone class marking. Drones in the Open Category (for low-risk activities) will need to meet new safety and technical standards. The CAA, designated as the Market Surveillance Authority (MSA), will monitor compliance among manufacturers, importers, and distributors.

If you already own a drone without a class marking, you will need to verify whether it qualifies under transitional provisions, which will remain in place until the 2026 deadline. This framework aims to increase public confidence in drone safety, support industry growth, and establish a safer, more regulated drone environment. You can read the full announcement from the CAA here.

Specific operations risk assessment (SORA)

From April 23^rd 2025, the CAA will adopt the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) methodology to evaluate and approve higher-risk drone operations. This new, quantitative framework will replace the previous qualitative assessments, helping standardise safety across the industry. SORA will enable operators to conduct detailed risk assessments for specific category operations, including complex missions such as beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flights.

SORA-based applications for Operational Authorisations will be processed through the new digital UK SORA Application Service. This widely used international framework aligns the UK with global best practices in drone risk assessment. SORA’s introduction will ensure a higher level of safety for advanced drone missions while promoting consistency across borders. For more details, visit the CAA’s SORA page.

Beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations

New policies will make BVLOS operations more accessible, allowing drones to operate beyond the visual line of sight of remote pilots. This will open up opportunities for long-distance infrastructure inspections – such as power lines and wind turbines – as well as enhanced site security. It follows publication of the regulator’s roadmap to enabling regular and routine drone operations across society by 2027. However, BVLOS operations will still require specific approval and must comply with detailed safety measures to ensure minimal risk to other aircraft.

These operations will be permitted at low altitudes near structures where the risk to other aircraft is minimal, which aims to reduce operational costs and improve efficiency for maintenance and security tasks. While BVLOS operations will become more accessible, they will not be fully unrestricted and will still require operators to adhere to specific safety and regulatory conditions.

Extension of legacy and transitional provisions

The Department for Transport (DfT), in collaboration with the CAA, has extended legacy and transitional provisions for drones operating in the Open Category until January 1st, 2026. This extension is not just about giving operators more time – it also allows UK regulators to conduct a comprehensive review of unmanned aircraft regulations. The goal is to ensure the regulations remain fit for purpose as technology evolves and operational needs change.

Additionally, drone operators should note that EU class marks are no longer recognised in the UK since January 1st, 2023. Operators must ensure their equipment meets UK-specific standards.

Statutory charges and financial matters

The CAA’s revised Schemes of Charges came into effect on April 1^st 2025, following approval. These updates include an average increase of 1.6% across all charge categories – a rise the CAA noted was below the rate of inflation at the time. The changes also reflect a reduction in taxpayer funding for certain ongoing activities, meaning a greater share of costs is now being recovered through industry fees. For drone operators, this may result in higher charges as the funding model continues to shift.

In addition to the updated fees, the CAA has announced plans to expand its regulatory activities, invest in digital transformation, and modernise its estates portfolio. These strategic priorities are expected to influence future costs, so it remains important for operators to stay informed about further developments.

These updates mark a significant shift in UK drone regulations, impacting both commercial and recreational operators. Staying informed and ensuring compliance will be crucial as new rules come into effect.

What should you do next?

• Review the upcoming changes and assess how they affect your operations.
• Ensure your drone meets new class marking standards before the January 2026 deadline.
• Prepare for SORA-based applications if you conduct higher-risk operations.
• Stay updated by following official CAA announcements.