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Regulatory Framework

The UK operates under the CAA regulatory framework, independent from EASA since the end of the Brexit transition period. All drone rules for UK airspace are set by the CAA under the Air Navigation Order 2016.

France, as an EU member state, follows the EASA drone regulations (Regulation 2019/947 and Delegated Regulation 2019/945), with national implementation overseen by the Direction Generale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC). France was historically one of the first European countries to create comprehensive drone legislation and has maintained certain national provisions alongside the harmonised EU rules.

Registration

UK registration costs GBP 10.33 annually and is required for drones at 250g or above, or any camera-equipped drone. Operators receive an Operator ID and Flyer ID valid only in the UK.

In France, drone registration is handled through the AlphaTango platform operated by the DGAC. Registration is free for recreational operators and required for drones weighing 250g or more or equipped with a camera. An EU operator registration obtained in France is valid across all EU and EEA member states, giving French-registered operators broader geographic flexibility.

Training Requirements

UK recreational operators must pass the online Flyer ID theory test. Commercial operators pursue the A2 CofC or GVC depending on their operational needs.

In France, recreational operators of drones weighing 250g or above must complete an online training course through the AlphaTango platform and pass a knowledge assessment. For operations in the Open A2 subcategory, an additional online course and self-declared practical competency are required, mirroring the broader EASA framework. For Specific category operations, a French remote pilot certificate of competency is required, along with appropriate operational authorisations.

Airspace Restrictions

The UK uses Flight Restriction Zones (FRZs) around airports and designates additional restricted areas through NOTAMs and the CAA's drone map tools.

France has historically maintained some of the most detailed airspace restrictions in Europe through its Geoportail mapping system. The DGAC designates numerous zones where drone operations are prohibited or restricted, including around airports, military sites, nuclear installations, national parks, and densely populated urban areas. Since the implementation of EU UAS geographical zones, France has continued to maintain its own detailed mapping layer alongside the EASA-harmonised requirements.

Insurance

UK commercial operators must hold third-party liability insurance. The required coverage levels depend on the drone's MTOM and the nature of operations.

In France, third-party liability insurance is mandatory for all drone operations, including recreational flights. This reflects the broader EU regulation and French national civil liability requirements. Insurance must cover bodily injury and property damage to third parties.

Altitude and Visual Line of Sight

Both countries share the 120-metre maximum altitude for Open category operations. Visual line of sight must be maintained in both jurisdictions unless specific authorisation for BVLOS operations has been granted.

France applies a maximum altitude of 120m in line with EASA rules. In certain designated areas, the maximum altitude may be further reduced. Night flights for recreational purposes are generally prohibited in France, though exceptions exist for drones equipped with appropriate lighting and operating under specific conditions.

Comparison Table

Flying Between the UK and France

Post-Brexit, UK drone qualifications are not recognised in France, and French EASA-issued certifications do not apply in the UK. Operators planning cross-Channel flights or travel must register separately in each jurisdiction and meet the respective training requirements. MmowW provides compliance tools for both UK and French drone regulations.