Drone and Model Aircraft Code (CAA CAP2320) – Key Points

A set of key question-and-answer flashcards to help you prepare for the CAA’s flyer ID theory test and understand the main rules in the UK Drone and Model Aircraft Code (Open A1/A3).

What two IDs may be required before flying a drone or model aircraft outdoors in the UK?

A flyer ID (shows you passed the theory test) and an operator ID (must be displayed on the aircraft).

Who is responsible for flying safely and legally every time a drone is flown?

The remote pilot / flyer who is controlling the aircraft.

What does a flyer ID prove and how is it obtained?

It proves you passed the CAA’s official online theory test; you obtain it by passing that test.

At what minimum age can someone register for an operator ID?

18 years old.

Does a toy drone that weighs under 250 g require a flyer ID or an operator ID?

No, neither ID is required, but the Code must still be followed.

Which sub-250 g drones require an operator ID even though a flyer ID is not needed?

Non-toy drones under 250 g that are fitted with a camera.

Name the four categories of drone operations under UK law.

Open A1 & A3 (basic, low-risk), Open A2 (medium risk), Specific (moderate risk), Certified (high/complex risk).

Which categories does the Drone and Model Aircraft Code prepare you to fly in?

The Open A1 and A3 sub-categories.

What is the legal maximum height you may fly a drone or model aircraft in the UK?

120 m (400 ft) above the earth’s surface.

What minimum horizontal distance must be kept from uninvolved people?

50 m.

Can a drone under 250 g fly closer than 50 m to people?

Yes, it may fly closer and over people (but never over crowds) as long as safety is maintained.

What is the rule for flying over crowds of people?

You must never fly over people who are crowded together, regardless of drone size.

How far must you keep from residential, recreational, commercial or industrial sites?

At least 150 m horizontally (unless you have additional authorisation or the drone is <250 g and safely flown).

What is an airport Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ) and what must you do before entering it?

A protected zone around airports/airfields/spaceports; you must obtain explicit permission from the aerodrome before flying inside it.

Give three reliable sources to check for airspace restrictions before you fly.

NATS airspace map, reputable drone apps, and NOTAMs/Aeronautical Information Publication.

What must you obtain if you want to fly outside the limits of the Open A1/A3 Code?

The correct authorisation from the CAA (or permission from an airport for FRZ operations).

Before every flight, what two performance limits of your drone should you know?

Its maximum control range (signal limit) and its endurance (flight time before low power/fuel).

Why must firmware (built-in software) be kept up to date?

To maintain safe navigation/control, receive current restriction data, and protect against cyber-attack.

What is the rule about dropping or firing items from a drone in the Open category?

Never drop, lower or fire anything while the aircraft is flying.

Give two examples of dangerous cargo that must not be carried on a drone.

Poisonous or corrosive substances (e.g., acid) and flammable liquids (e.g., petrol) other than engine fuel.

What does MTOM stand for and why is it important?

Maximum Take-Off Mass – the maximum safe weight (including fuel and equipment) the aircraft may have at take-off.

List three weather conditions that can make it unsafe or illegal to fly.

Strong winds, rain/fog reducing visibility, and glare or low temperatures that affect battery performance or pilot concentration.

Name four personal conditions under which you must NOT fly a drone.

Under the influence of alcohol, under the influence of impairing drugs/medication, when tired or unwell, or while distracted by another activity (e.g., driving).

What immediate action should you take if a low-flying aircraft approaches your area?

Reduce altitude or land promptly and wait until it is safe to continue.

How and to whom must serious drone incidents or near misses be reported?

Report to the Civil Aviation Authority (can be anonymous); suspicious misuse should be reported to police on 101.

When is third-party insurance compulsory for drones under 20 kg?

Whenever they are flown for any purpose other than sport/recreation (e.g., commercial work).

Is insurance mandatory for any drone or model aircraft of 20 kg or more?

Yes, third-party insurance is always required regardless of purpose.

What privacy principle must be followed if your drone is fitted with a camera or microphone?

Respect other people’s privacy and comply with data-protection laws (e.g., GDPR).

How should you make yourself identifiable when out flying?

Ensure you can be clearly seen so people know who is responsible for the drone.

What should you do, where practical, before starting to record images or video of others?

Let people know you will be recording or taking pictures.

How long is a flyer ID valid, and what must you do to renew it?

It is valid for 5 years; you must pass the theory test again to renew.

What extra step is required when a child under 13 takes the CAA theory test?

A parent or guardian must be present to register and supervise for data-protection reasons.

Who must register for an operator ID?

The person or organisation responsible for the aircraft (maintenance, labelling, who may fly it) – must be 18 +.

Where and how must an operator ID be displayed on an aircraft?

On the main body, visible or in an easily opened compartment, block capitals ≥3 mm high, secure from damage.

How often must an operator ID be renewed?

Every year.

Before allowing someone else to fly your drone, what must the operator check?

That the person has appropriate authorisation, e.g., a valid flyer ID (not required for sub-250 g drones).

What information should an operator provide to other pilots of their drone?

Expectations for safe flying, maintenance responsibilities, and the requirement to follow the Code and manufacturer’s instructions.

When may you fly without keeping the drone in direct sight while using follow-me mode?

When follow-me is set to keep the aircraft within 50 m of you; all other rules still apply.

What is the height limit for model gliders (≤10 kg) flown from hills or mountains?

Up to 120 m (400 ft) above the pilot’s launch point, rather than above ground directly beneath the glider.

Under what conditions may you fly above 120 m over a structure taller than 105 m?

Only if the structure’s responsible person asks you to perform a related task; you may fly up to 15 m above and within 50 m horizontally of the structure.

What is required when flying First-Person View (FPV) in the Open category?

You must have a competent observer next to you who keeps the aircraft in direct sight and maintains two-way communication.

Name three visual aids you are NOT allowed to rely on to keep a drone in sight in normal flight.

Binoculars, telephoto lenses, or electronic viewing devices such as phones, tablets or FPV goggles.