Where Can I Fly a Drone in London? UAV Rules and Permissions in London

London drone restrictions: NATS (L) Drone Assist (R)

Updated 9th June 2024, by Jack

London Drone Regulations: A Comprehensive Guide

As drones become more common and integrated into everyday life, both recreational and commercial flights are increasing. However, the rules around drone flying can be complicated, with flight permissions depending on the type of drone, proximity to airports, potential hazards, and specific requirements set out by each borough. Drone regulations are constantly changing, and it is essential to stay up to date and follow the Civil Aviation Authority's (CAA) drone code of conduct at all times. For the latest information, refer to the CAA’s official website or their “Drone Safe” page.

CAA Rules

London is a bustling city, making it challenging to find locations that fall outside the CAA's restrictions on flying near built-up areas, which include residential, recreational, commercial, and industrial zones. For the purpose of this article, we'll focus on flying drones under 250g, which have more relaxed restrictions. For example, the DJI Mini series drones fall into this category and offer greater flexibility for urban flying. However, these drones must still maintain a safe distance from people and property, and operators must follow specific rules regarding flights over people and built-up areas.

Airports and NATS Restrictions

According to CAA rules, you cannot fly within the flight restriction zone (FRZ) of an airport, which can extend up to 5km around airport runways. London has several airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, and City Airport. Additionally, the London Heliport near Battersea and two restricted zones in central London add to the complexity. For a comprehensive overview of these zones, you can check out the NATS (National Air Traffic Services) website, which provides detailed maps and information on airspace restrictions. Drone operators can apply for permission to fly within these zones through platforms like the NATS Drone Assist app or by contacting the airport's air traffic control.

Local Bye-laws and Borough Regulations

Each borough in London has specific rules regarding drone flying and filming. Generally, these regulations are very strict, restricting flights in most areas. Finding detailed information online can be difficult, so a good starting point is contacting or checking the website of the borough's film office, especially if your drone flying involves filming. For central London areas, approval is governed by the City of London Police. Examples of strict boroughs include Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea, which have well-known restrictions on drone flights. For recreational flyers, the Richmond Park Flying Field stands out as one of the few areas with more relaxed regulations, additional information can be found in The Royal Parks Drone Policy.

Hazards and Obstacles

Flying near or over hazardous infrastructure such as electricity pylons, train lines, or cranes is dangerous and requires careful planning. Permissions may be required from relevant authorities, such as Network Rail if flying near train lines. Always consider potential hazards when planning your flight to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Additional hazardous areas to avoid include schools, hospitals, and large public gatherings.

Take-off Point

It's crucial to have permission from the landowner where you plan to take off. This could be a local council, a private individual, or a business. Always seek and secure permission before launching your drone to avoid legal issues and ensure a smooth flight. This includes public parks and other common areas where people might assume they have automatic permission to fly.

Drone Assist

Given the numerous rules and pre-flight checks required, planning a drone flight can seem daunting. Fortunately, apps like Drone Assist from Altitude Angel consolidate information and provide a visual map of drone restrictions and hazards. However, there are some limitations to note:

• Specified Area (EGR160)

  This large area covering most of London applies only to helicopters and not to drones like the DJI Mini. While this area appears on the Drone Assist map, it does not apply to drones, which is a relief for drone operators.

• Council Bye-laws and Take-off Permissions

  Drone Assist is excellent for identifying hazardous areas, but it does not provide information on local council bye-laws or take-off permission requirements. Additional research is still necessary to ensure full compliance.

Key Takeaways for Safe Flying

Navigating the numerous rules surrounding drone flying in London can be challenging. For amateur or recreational flyers, the Richmond Park Flying Field serves as an excellent starting point to test out new drones. Experienced pilots will find flying in London rewarding due to its dynamic skyline, but they must remain vigilant about understanding and adhering to regulations. Staying informed about the latest drone rules is crucial for safe and effective operation. At Vidda, our active involvement in events like DroneX ensures that we remain at the forefront of industry developments. By engaging in discussions with NATS about potential future changes, we are better equipped to serve our clients and stay ahead of regulatory shifts.