The Drone and Model Aircraft Code

For flying drones, model aeroplanes, model gliders, model helicopters, and other unmanned aircraft systems outdoors in the Open A1 and A3 categories

The Drone and Model Aircraft Code published and last updated dates
From:	The UK Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new tab)
Published:	October 2019
Last updated:	December 2023, see all updates

Background: Drones and model aircraft in the law

The following acts and regulations include some of the key points of law that this Drone and Model Aircraft Code is based on. The list is not intended to be comprehensive.

For the precise wording of the law, please see the acts and regulations. These are also available in print from The Stationery Office (opens in new tab).

Acts and regulations

CAP1789A: Consolidated version of the EU UAS Implementing Regulation (opens in a new tab).

CAP1789B: Consolidated version of the EU UAS Delegated Regulation (opens in a new tab).

The Air Navigation Order 2016 (opens in new tab), including the 2018 amendment (opens in new tab) and 2019 amendment (opens in new tab).

The Civil Aviation Authority has published a copy of the Air Navigation Order with amendments inserted (opens in a new tab).

The Data Protection Act 2018 (opens in new tab).