Frequently Asked Questions: CAA Open Category Operations
Frequently Asked Questions: CAA Open Category Operations
Target Audience: New Drone Pilots (Beginners)
1. Do I need a license to fly a drone under the Open category?
Answer: No, you don’t need a specific license to fly a drone in the Open category. However, you must register as an operator and pass the online theory test to obtain a Flyer ID if your drone weighs 250g or more or is equipped with a camera.Regulatory Context: As per CAA regulations, anyone operating a drone under the Open category must comply with the requirements outlined in UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947.
Practical Example: If you plan to fly a DJI Mini 2 (weighing 249g), registration is not required unless the drone has a camera. Most drones have cameras, so registering and passing the test are often mandatory.
Safety Reminder: Always check your drone's weight and specifications before flying.
Official Reference: CAA Drone Registration Guidance
2. What is the Open category, and what does it cover?
Answer: The Open category is for low-risk drone operations. It allows pilots to fly drones under specific conditions, such as maintaining a maximum flight altitude of 120m (400ft) and staying away from people and property.
Regulatory Context: Open category operations are divided into three subcategories: A1 (fly over people), A2 (fly near people), and A3 (fly far from people). Each subcategory has specific rules based on drone weight and proximity to uninvolved persons.
Practical Example: Flying a drone weighing less than 250g in your backyard may fall under A1, whereas flying a heavier drone in a field away from people would typically fall under A3.
Safety Reminder: Always fly within visual line of sight (VLOS).
Official Reference: UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Annex Part A
3. How high can I fly my drone in the Open category?
Answer: The maximum permitted altitude is 120m (400ft) above ground level.
Regulatory Context: This limit is designed to ensure drones do not interfere with manned aircraft operations, as per UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Article 4.
Practical Example: If you are flying your drone on a hilltop, measure the 120m from the hilltop, not from sea level.
Safety Reminder: Be mindful of any temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) or controlled airspaces that may have lower altitude limits.
Official Reference: CAP 722 – UAS Guidance
4. Do I need insurance to fly a drone under the Open category?
Answer: Insurance is not mandatory for recreational drone operations in the Open category, but it is highly recommended to cover potential liability.
Regulatory Context: Commercial operators or those flying under specific permissions may require insurance as per Article 16 Authorisation.
Practical Example: If your drone accidentally damages property or injures someone, having insurance can protect you financially.
Safety Reminder: FPV UK offers insurance coverage for recreational pilots.
Official Reference: CAA Insurance Guidance
Target Audience: Active Pilots with Some Experience
5. Can I fly my drone in my local park under the Open category?
Answer: Yes, as long as you comply with local council rules, avoid flying over uninvolved people, and stay within 120m altitude.Regulatory Context: Open category rules require you to maintain a safe distance from people and respect privacy. Some councils may have specific bans or permissions for drone flying.
Practical Example: Check with your local council for restrictions before flying in a public park.
Safety Reminder: Avoid flying near playgrounds or crowded areas.
Official Reference: UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Article 4
6. What happens if I lose sight of my drone while flying?
Answer: Flying beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) is prohibited in the Open category. If you lose sight of your drone, immediately try to regain visual contact or land it safely.
Regulatory Context: Open category operations require pilots to maintain VLOS at all times unless operating under a specific BVLOS permission.
Practical Example: Flying in foggy weather may increase the risk of losing visual contact with your drone.
Safety Reminder: Always fly in clear weather and ensure your drone remains visible.
Official Reference: UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Article 4
7. Can I fly near an airport under the Open category?
Answer: No, you cannot fly near an airport without special permission. The Open category prohibits flying within restricted airspaces, including airports.
Regulatory Context: As per CAP 722, drones must remain outside flight restriction zones (FRZs) unless specific permission is granted by the relevant air traffic control (ATC).
Practical Example: Heathrow Airport has a designated FRZ. Flying within this zone without permission is illegal and dangerous.
Safety Reminder: Use apps like Drone Assist to check airspace restrictions before flying.
Official Reference: CAP 722 – UAS Guidance
Target Audience: Professional Operators (Commercial Pilots)
8. Can I fly a drone weighing over 25kg in the Open category?
Answer: No, drones weighing over 25kg cannot be operated in the Open category. They require Specific or Certified category authorisation.Regulatory Context: The Open category is limited to drones weighing less than 25kg as per Annex Part A of UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947.
Practical Example: Operating an agricultural drone weighing 30kg would require a PDRA or an operational authorisation under the Specific category.
Safety Reminder: Ensure your drone is properly maintained and within weight limits for safe operation.
Official Reference: UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Annex Part A
9. Do I need a commercial license to operate under the Open category?
Answer: No commercial license is required for Open category operations. However, all pilots must follow the same rules regardless of the purpose of the flight.
Regulatory Context: Commercial operations under the Open category must comply with standard Open category rules, including subcategory limitations.
Practical Example: Using a drone for real estate photography is allowed under the Open category, provided you follow A2 or A3 subcategory rules.
Safety Reminder: Consider obtaining insurance for commercial operations to mitigate liability risks.
Official Reference: UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Article 4
Target Audience: All Pilots
10. What penalties can I face for violating Open category rules?
Answer: Penalties can include fines, prosecution, and a ban on operating drones.Regulatory Context: Violations such as flying in restricted areas or endangering people can lead to enforcement actions under UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947 and the Air Navigation Order (ANO).
Practical Example: Flying over a crowded event without permission can result in a fine or prosecution.
Safety Reminder: Always follow the rules to avoid penalties and ensure safety.
Official Reference: CAA Enforcement Guidance
11. Can I fly my drone over people under the Open category?
Answer: Flying over uninvolved people is only permitted in the A1 subcategory and for drones weighing less than 250g.
Regulatory Context: The A1 subcategory allows limited overflight of uninvolved persons, provided the drone meets weight and certification requirements.
Practical Example: Flying a DJI Mini 3 Pro (less than 250g) over a quiet street is allowed under A1.
Safety Reminder: Never fly directly over crowds or assemblies of people.
Official Reference: UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Annex Part A
12. What should I do if my drone crashes?
Answer: Secure the crash site, ensure no one is injured, and report the incident if required.
Regulatory Context: Significant incidents, such as injuries or property damage, must be reported to the CAA as per CAP 722.
Practical Example: If your drone crashes into a car, you must exchange contact details and report the incident to the CAA.
Safety Reminder: Inspect your drone thoroughly before every flight to prevent crashes.
Official Reference: CAP 722 – Incident Reporting
13. How do I register as a drone operator?
Answer: You can register on the CAA website. The registration process involves providing your details and paying a small annual fee.
Regulatory Context: All operators of drones weighing 250g or more or equipped with a camera must register under UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947.
Practical Example: If you own a DJI Air 3, you need to register and display your Operator ID on the drone.
Safety Reminder: Ensure your Operator ID is clearly visible on your drone at all times.
Official Reference: Register Your Drone
Disclaimer:
Regulations may change—always verify with official sources. This is educational content and not legal advice. Consult official CAA documentation for complete requirements.
For more information, visit 120mAGL.com or CAA Drones .
About the Author
Roberto Gramellini
Aviation expert and UAS regulations specialist with extensive experience in EASA compliance and drone operations. Passionate about making complex regulations accessible to drone pilots across Europe.
EASA Regulatory Compliance Notice
This content is for educational purposes only and is based on EASA regulations current at the time of generation.
Always consult the official EASA documentation and your local aviation authorities for the most current regulations and legal compliance requirements before operating any UAS.