Parrot Drones Weight Class in the UK — All Models

Parrot ANAFI Weight Comparison Table

The table below compares all four Parrot ANAFI models commonly flown in the UK, with their regulatory implications under CAA rules as of 2026.

Why Weight Matters for UK Drone Law

The 250g threshold is the single most important weight boundary in UK drone regulation. Below 250g, recreational pilots do not need to register with the CAA (though they must still follow the Drone and Model Aircraft Code). Above 250g, both a Flyer ID and an Operator ID are mandatory.

Every Parrot ANAFI model sits above this threshold. Even the lightest — the ANAFI Thermal at 315g — exceeds it by 65g. There is no reduced registration pathway for drones that are only slightly above the line; the requirements are identical whether your drone weighs 260g or 8,000g.

What "No Class Marking" Means

Class markings (C0 through C6) are labels applied by manufacturers to indicate that a drone meets specific technical standards defined by the CAA. A drone with a class marking can access more flexible flying rules — for instance, a C1-marked drone can fly closer to uninvolved people under A1 subcategory rules.

As of 2026, no Parrot ANAFI model carries a class marking. This is common among drones that were designed before the current classification system was fully implemented. Without a class mark, all ANAFI drones default to the A3 subcategory, regardless of their weight.

The practical consequence is significant: under A3, you must fly at least 150 metres from residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational areas. A class-marked drone of similar weight could potentially fly much closer to these areas.

A3 Open Category Rules — Shared by All ANAFI Models

Because all four models fly under the same A3 subcategory, the operational rules are identical:

• 150-metre buffer — maintain horizontal distance from residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational areas
• 120-metre ceiling — maximum altitude above ground level (400 feet)
• Visual line of sight — the drone must remain visible to the unaided eye at all times
• Give way to manned aircraft — without exception
• No controlled airspace — without prior CAA authorisation

Choosing the Right ANAFI for Your Needs

Recreational Photography and Video

The original Parrot ANAFI remains an excellent choice for hobbyist aerial photography, though it is now only available second-hand. Its compact folding design and 4K HDR camera make it easy to carry and capable of producing impressive footage. At 320g, it is the second-lightest in the range.

Thermal Inspections

The ANAFI Thermal is the lightest option with thermal imaging capability. At 315g, it is the most portable thermal drone in the Parrot range. Ideal for initial building assessments, energy audits, and agricultural monitoring where portability is a priority.

Government and Security Operations

The ANAFI USA was purpose-built for government agencies and security applications. Its enhanced cybersecurity features — no data logging, local-only storage, no third-party data sharing — make it suitable for sensitive operations. At 500g, it sits in the middle of the weight range.

Enterprise Mapping and Surveying

The ANAFI AI is the most capable model, with 48-megapixel imaging, 4G connectivity for extended command range, and photogrammetry software integration. At 898g, it is the heaviest ANAFI but still well within the Open Category limit of 25kg.

Registration Process — Same for All Models

Regardless of which ANAFI model you fly, the registration process is identical:

1. Visit register-drones.caa.co.uk
2. Pass the Flyer ID test (free, 20 questions, 16/20 to pass, valid 5 years)
3. Obtain your Operator ID (£10.33/year)
4. Label your drone with the Operator ID

One Operator ID covers all your drones. If you own multiple ANAFI models, you only need one Operator ID — but the label must appear on each aircraft individually.

What About Parrot's Newer Models?

Parrot has shifted focus toward professional and government markets. The ANAFI AI represents their current flagship. If Parrot releases future models with class markings, those drones could potentially fly under less restrictive subcategories (A1 or A2), offering greater flexibility near people and built-up areas. Until then, all ANAFI models follow the same A3 rules.