Updated reflecting the UK CAA drone rules that came into force on 1 January 2026 (with references to the revised Open Category distances and classification framework):

DJI Air 2S

The DJI Air 2S is a “legacy” drone (placed on the UK market before 1 January 2026) with a flying weight over 250 g. Under the current Open Category rules for legacy drones, it must operate in the Far from People (A3) sub-category. This means I must keep at least 50 m horizontally from uninvolved people and at least 150 m from residential, commercial, industrial or recreational areas. A legacy drone such as this cannot be flown over uninvolved people. These distances are based on the legacy weight-based rules that continue to apply until fully replaced by class-mark requirements.

However, because I hold a valid CAA A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC), I am permitted to operate this drone in Near People (A2) where the standard distance from uninvolved people is 30 m, or 5 m in low-speed mode, when all A2 CofC conditions are met.  My DJI Air 2S has been also granted a retrospective C1 class mark and is labelled accordingly. Following a manufacturer firmware update, it also complies with the C1 noise requirement of less than 83 dB.

DJI Mini 3 Pro

The DJI Mini 3 Pro is a sub-250 g drone. Under current rules it can be flown in the Open Category A1 (“Fly Over People”) sub-category. This allows flight closer to, or over, uninvolved people (but not over assemblies of people), and permits operation within residential, commercial, industrial and recreational areas, provided all other operating requirements are followed.

Neither drone may be flown over assemblies of people.

For both drones:

• The maximum permitted height is 120 m above the surface.
• I must maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) at all times, or be accompanied by a competent observer who can do so.
• I have completed the CAA Drone and Model Aircraft Registration and Education Service (DMARES) exam and hold a valid Flyer ID, which is required for all drones weighing 100 g or more.
• From 1st January 2028 I must broadcast my Remote ID.

For each commercial job, I adhere to any applicable bylaws and obtain Public Liability Insurance for the duration of the flight.

Copies of my Operator ID, Flyer ID , A2 Certificate of Competence, and Public Liability Insurance available upon request. 

Who needs a drone or Uncrewed Aerial System (UAS)

Housebuilders

Drone services to monitor progress at construction sites, providing clear, high-resolution aerial imagery to support project planning, reporting, and stakeholder updates. Ideal for documenting build phases, site layout, access routes, and overall development progress.

Residential Homes

Aerial inspection services for buildings, land, and property. This includes detailed surveys of roofs, chimneys, gutters, and hard-to-reach areas, helping to identify maintenance issues safely and efficiently without the need for scaffolding or ladders.

Estate Agents
Professional aerial photography and video for domestic and commercial property marketing. Services include showcasing homes, land, and commercial premises, as well as specialist surveying of features such as church spires and large or complex buildings, enhancing sales and marketing material with a strong visual impact.

Tourism and Events
Drone video and photography for tourism promotion, events, and destination marketing. Ideal for capturing venues, landscapes, attractions, and live events to support promotional campaigns, websites, and social media content.