With drone registration legislation set to come into effect on 30th November, the Civil Aviation Authority is issuing a final call for drone users to get registered – or risk a £1,000 fine
Although over 40,000 have already complied tens of thousands of drone users are still to register.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has today issued a final call for UK drone users to register ahead of the impending enforcement of the UK’s drone registration scheme – or else risk a fine of £1,000.
From 30th November, UK drone users who fail to provide proof of registration when asked by the police will be subject to a fine. Registration is mandatory for drone owners and operators in the UK with drones weighing over 250g. Registration costs just £9 and can be completed online at register-drones.caa.co.uk
So far over 40,000 drone users have registered. Though with estimates suggesting that there are around 90,000 drone users in the UK, there are still approximately 50,000 users at risk of being fined.
Linked to registration is an online drone safety education and test package. This is also a legal requirement from the end of November for anyone flying a drone over 250g and will apply whether they are a drone owner or not. There is no charge for taking the test.
Jonathan Nicholson, CAA Assistant Director of Communications, said, “UK drone laws are changing and it’s vital that drone users – whether they fly regularly or not – are aware of how the drone registration scheme will affect them.
“Registration becomes law from the 30th November. If you are caught flying a drone from then, and unable to present proof of registration, you could be hit with a £1,000 fine. The online registration system has been designed to be as intuitive and accessible as possible, meaning those that need to register online can do so easily by the deadline.”
Users can now register as a drone operator and/or flyer at: register-drones.caa.co.uk
After becoming aware of the drone registration scheme, half of drone owners (49%) saw this as useful in tracking unsafe drone flying. The expected benefits also extend to tracking lost drones (44%) and keeping drone owners up to date with drone legislation (43%).
The new legislation only applies to drones being flown outside. Model fliers belonging to a recognised association will be added to the register in the new year in conjunction with their association.
