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Regulatory Authorities

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulates drone operations across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland under the Air Navigation Order 2016. Since Brexit, the CAA has full autonomy over UK airspace policy for unmanned aircraft.

In Canada, Transport Canada oversees all remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) operations under the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), Part IX. The regulations introduced in June 2019 established the current framework for drones weighing between 250g and 25kg.

Registration

UK registration costs GBP 10.33 per year for operators of drones weighing 250g or more, or any camera-equipped drone. Operators receive both an Operator ID and a Flyer ID.

Canadian registration with Transport Canada costs CAD 5 per drone for a five-year period. Registration is required for all drones between 250g and 25kg that will be flown outdoors. The drone must be marked with the registration number in a location visible without tools. Pilots must also obtain a drone pilot certificate.

Pilot Certificates

The UK requires recreational pilots to pass the CAA Flyer ID online theory test. Commercial operators pursue either the A2 CofC or GVC qualification depending on the nature of their intended operations.

Canada uses a two-tier system: a Basic pilot certificate and an Advanced pilot certificate. The Basic certificate requires passing an online examination and allows operations in uncontrolled airspace, away from bystanders. The Advanced certificate additionally requires a flight review conducted by a Transport Canada-approved flight reviewer and permits operations in controlled airspace and near bystanders, subject to certain conditions. The minimum age for a Basic certificate is 14 years, and for Advanced it is 16 years.

Airspace and Altitude

Both countries limit standard drone flights to 120 metres (400 feet) above ground level. Visual line of sight is required in both jurisdictions for standard operations.

In the UK, flying in Flight Restriction Zones requires specific authorisation from the CAA. In Canada, flying in controlled airspace requires an Advanced pilot certificate and a prior authorisation obtained through the NAV DRONE system. Canadian regulations also establish specific distance requirements from heliports, aerodromes, and advertised locations of manned aircraft activity.

Insurance

UK commercial drone operations require third-party liability insurance, with coverage levels depending on the maximum take-off mass and operation type.

Canada does not mandate drone-specific insurance at the federal level for operations under 25kg, though it is strongly encouraged by Transport Canada and often required by clients. Provincial regulations may impose additional requirements. Most professional RPAS operators in Canada carry a minimum of CAD 1 million in liability coverage.

No-Fly Zones

The UK uses Flight Restriction Zones (FRZs) primarily around airports, with additional restrictions near prisons, military installations, and during special events. The CAA publishes these through NOTAM systems and the Drone and Model Aircraft Registration service.

Canada designates restricted areas around airports, military zones, national parks (where drone use requires a Parks Canada permit), and emergency scenes. Transport Canada's drone site selection tool and the NAV DRONE system help operators identify airspace restrictions before flying.

Comparison Overview

Cross-Border Considerations

UK and Canadian drone certifications are not mutually recognised. Operators planning to fly in both countries must register and obtain the appropriate qualifications in each jurisdiction independently. MmowW compliance tools cover both UK and Canadian drone regulations, helping pilots navigate the requirements for each country.