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Regulatory Authorities

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulates all drone operations under the Air Navigation Order 2016. After Brexit, the CAA operates independently from any international harmonised framework.

In Japan, drone regulation falls under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), specifically the Civil Aviation Bureau. The regulatory foundation is the Civil Aeronautics Act, significantly amended in 2022 to introduce a comprehensive registration and remote identification system. Japan uses the DIPS (Drone Information Platform System) for flight permissions and the DRS (Drone Registration System) for aircraft registration.

Registration

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

In Japan, registration through the DRS system has been mandatory since June 2022 for all drones weighing 100g or more. This lower threshold means many more drones fall within the registration requirement compared to the UK's 250g threshold. Registration requires providing the owner's details, drone specifications, and designating a responsible person. A registration number is assigned and must be displayed on the aircraft. There is a registration fee that varies by application method (online vs paper).

Remote Identification

The UK has been developing electronic conspicuity requirements, with the CAA encouraging voluntary adoption of remote ID technology.

Japan requires mandatory remote identification for all registered drones. The remote ID function must broadcast the aircraft's registration number, position, speed, and altitude. This was introduced alongside the registration system in 2022 and applies to both recreational and commercial operations. Drones without built-in remote ID capability must be equipped with an external remote ID device. Exemptions exist only for flights within specific pre-registered areas.

Airspace and Flight Restrictions

The UK uses Flight Restriction Zones around airports and designates additional restricted areas through NOTAMs.

Japan designates several categories of restricted airspace. Flights above 150 metres (higher than the UK's 120m limit for standard operations), within airport approach surfaces, and above densely inhabited districts (DIDs) all require prior permission from MLIT. Permission is applied for through the DIPS system. Japan's DID classification, based on census data, effectively prohibits casual drone flight over most urban areas without a specific permit.

Japan's maximum standard altitude for unrestricted flight is 150 metres above ground level, compared to the UK's 120 metres. However, this is somewhat offset by the more extensive area-based restrictions in Japan.

Insurance

UK commercial operators must hold third-party liability insurance. Recreational insurance is recommended.

Japan does not have a blanket legal requirement for drone insurance, but MLIT strongly recommends it and many flight permissions are conditional upon having adequate coverage. Most professional operators in Japan carry third-party liability insurance. Industry bodies have encouraged widespread adoption, and many flight permission applications include proof of insurance as supporting documentation.

Commercial Operations

UK commercial pilots need an A2 CofC or GVC depending on their operational requirements.

Japan introduced a drone pilot licensing system in December 2022. There are two categories of licence: Category 1 (for operations in uninhabited areas) and Category 2 (for operations over third parties in inhabited areas, including Level 4 autonomous flights). The licensing process includes a written examination, practical skills test, and a medical examination. Registered drone schools can deliver preparatory training. Commercial operations may also require additional operational permissions from MLIT depending on the specific nature of the work.

Key Differences

UK Pilots Flying in Japan

UK drone certifications have no validity in Japan. British pilots visiting Japan must register their drone through the DRS system, ensure their drone has remote ID capability, and obtain any necessary flight permissions through DIPS before flying. Japan's urban flight restrictions are extensive, so careful pre-flight planning is essential. MmowW provides compliance tools for understanding drone regulations in both countries.