Flying Drones in the CAA Open Category: A Comprehensive Guide for Pilots

Welcome to 120mAGL.com, your trusted source for clear, actionable guidance on CAA drone regulations. Whether you’re a hobbyist flying for fun or a professional utilizing drones for work, understanding the rules of the CAA Open Category is essential to flying safely and legally.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about operating drones in the Open Category under the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). From understanding the fundamental requirements to step-by-step compliance procedures, this article will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the skies responsibly and avoid penalties.

Let’s dive into the world of Open Category drone operations, and ensure you stay within the 120m AGL flight limit while making the most of your drone adventures.

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What is the Open Category?

The Open Category is one of the three operational categories defined by UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, which governs the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in the UK. It is specifically designed for low-risk drone operations that can be conducted safely without the need for direct oversight from the CAA.

Key Characteristics of the Open Category

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  No prior authorisation required: Unlike the Specific and Certified Categories, operations in the Open Category do not require special permissions from the CAA if all conditions are met.
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  Low-risk operations: These are activities that pose minimal risk to people, property, and airspace users.
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  Sub-categorization: The Open Category is divided into three subcategories: A1 (Fly Over People), A2 (Fly Near People), and A3 (Fly Far From People).

This category is ideal for recreational pilots and professionals performing straightforward tasks, such as aerial photography or recreational flying.

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Detailed Requirements for Open Category Operations

General Rules

To operate in the Open Category, all pilots must comply with the following general requirements:

1. Maximum altitude: Drones must not fly higher than 120m (400ft) above ground level.
2. Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): The drone must remain within the operator’s visual line of sight at all times.
3. Weight limits: The maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of the drone must not exceed 25kg.

Subcategory Breakdown

The Open Category is divided into three subcategories, each with specific rules:

A1: Fly Over People

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  You may fly over uninvolved people, but not over crowds.
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  Only drones classified as C0 (<250g) or C1 (<900g) may operate in this subcategory.
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  Direct Remote ID is required for C1 drones.

A2: Fly Near People

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  You may fly close to uninvolved people but must maintain a safe horizontal distance of at least 30m.
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  If operating a drone with a C2 classification, you may reduce the distance to 5m when flying in low-speed mode.
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  The drone must weigh less than 4kg.

A3: Fly Far From People

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  Operations must take place in areas clear of people, such as open fields or rural locations.
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  Maintain a minimum distance of 150m from residential, commercial, and industrial areas.
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  Suitable for drones classified as C3 or C4, weighing up to 25kg.

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Practical Applications: Flying Safely in the Open Category

Scenario 1: Recreational Flying

Imagine you’re flying your drone in a local park. To comply with Open Category rules:

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  Ensure your drone weighs less than 900g if flying over people (A1).
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  Keep it within 120m altitude and within VLOS.
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  Avoid flying over crowded areas, such as playgrounds or events.

Scenario 2: Aerial Photography

You’re capturing stunning landscapes in the countryside:

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  Maintain a safe distance of 150m from buildings and uninvolved people (A3).
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  Ensure the drone is no heavier than 25kg.
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  Conduct pre-flight checks to verify compliance with all applicable rules.

Scenario 3: Drone Inspections

For professionals performing roof inspections in urban areas:

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  Use a C2-class drone to fly within 5m of people in low-speed mode (A2).
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  Ensure the drone broadcasts Remote ID information.
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  Conduct a risk assessment to ensure operations are safe and legal.

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Common Questions and Challenges

Q1: Can I fly my drone at night in the Open Category?

Yes, night operations are allowed under the Open Category, provided you maintain VLOS and use appropriate lighting to ensure visibility.

Q2: What happens if I accidentally fly over a crowd?

Flying over crowds is strictly prohibited in the Open Category. If this occurs, you may face penalties under Article 16 of UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947. Always plan your flight paths to avoid such situations.

Q3: Do I need insurance for Open Category operations?

While not legally required, insurance is highly recommended to cover potential liabilities. Some associations, such as FPV UK, offer insurance as part of membership benefits.

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Compliance Checklist

Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure compliance with Open Category regulations:

1. Understand your drone’s classification: Verify whether your drone is C0, C1, C2, C3, or C4.
2. Register as an operator: All drone operators must register with the CAA if their drone weighs more than 250g.
3. Obtain a Flyer ID: Pass the online competency test to receive your Flyer ID.
4. Check the airspace: Use tools like Drone Assist to identify restricted zones.
5. Perform pre-flight checks: Ensure your drone is operational and complies with weight and Remote ID requirements.
6. Plan your operation: Choose the appropriate subcategory and follow the relevant distance limits.
7. Fly responsibly: Maintain VLOS, stay under 120m altitude, and avoid crowds.

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Case Studies: Real-Life Examples

Example 1: Drone Photography in A2

A photographer operating a C2 drone in a city centre uses low-speed mode to capture architectural shots near buildings while maintaining a 30m distance from people.

Example 2: Agricultural Survey in A3

A farmer uses a C3 drone to survey crops in a rural area, ensuring no uninvolved people are within 150m of the operation.

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Safety Reminders

Always follow the 120m AGL limit: Flying higher increases the risk of interfering with manned aircraft and breaking the law.

Respect people’s privacy: Avoid capturing images or videos of individuals without their consent.

Check for airspace restrictions: Flying in restricted or controlled airspace without permission is illegal.

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Summary

Operating in the CAA Open Category is straightforward, provided you follow the rules outlined in UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947. By understanding the subcategories (A1, A2, A3), performing proper risk assessments, and adhering to the 120m flight limit, you can enjoy safe and legal drone operations while protecting others and ensuring compliance.

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Further Resources

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  CAA Drone Registration
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  CAP 722 Guidance for UAS Operations
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  FPV UK Membership Benefits

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Disclaimer

This article is based on CAA regulations as of October 2023. Always check for the latest updates on official CAA resources to ensure compliance with current laws.

By following this guide, you can fly confidently knowing you’re operating within the law and prioritizing safety. Bookmark 120mAGL.com for regular updates and practical drone flying tips. Fly safe and enjoy exploring the skies!