The Drone and Model Aircraft Code

For Flying drones and model aircraft of 20kg or less outdoors in the UK
The Drone and Model Aircraft Code published and last updated dates
From: The Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new window)
Published: October 2019
Last updated: October 2019
Warning It is against the law to fly a drone or model aircraft without passing the theory test or registering. You can also be fined for breaking the law when flying. In the most serious cases, you could be sent to prison.

Aircraft covered by this Code:

  • Drones
  • Model aeroplanes
  • Model gliders
  • Model helicopters

The law groups these as small unmanned aircraft.


Contents

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Ready to take the theory test?

You’re ready take the theory test when you know the Code.

If you’re already an experienced flyer, you may not need to read the Code first, but you must pass the theory test and get a flyer ID.