UK Civil Aviation Authority Takes Charge of Drone Safety Standards

The UK’s aerospace regulatory body has been designated as the Market Surveillance Authority (MSA) for drones, effective January 1, 2026. This new responsibility entails ensuring that all drones within the Open Category adhere to enhanced safety and security standards set out by the Class Marking framework.

On March 17, 2025, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, announced the appointment of the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) as the authoritative body responsible for monitoring compliance in the drone sector. This development is pivotal in elevating safety measures and fostering future growth within the industry.

Starting in January 2026, drones utilized in the Open Category—which caters to low-risk activities and recreational use—will be obligated to meet specific product standards, enhancing the security of drone operations across the UK.

The MSA’s responsibilities include:

• Monitoring compliance with safety standards among manufacturers, importers, and distributors of drones, intervening when necessary.
• Overseeing the conformity assessment framework that will ensure compliance with established standards for drones.
• Managing Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs), which are third-party entities that validate adherence to safety regulations.

Sophie O’Sullivan, Director of Future of Flight at the CAA, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “This role is critical for assisting in the regulation and growth of the drone sector, particularly as they become more prevalent in daily life. Protecting public safety is our utmost priority, and these new powers will help uphold high safety standards across the industry.”

Drones classified under the Open Category are Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) weighing less than 25kg. The product standards will parallel those established under retained EU law, showcasing the UK’s commitment to maintaining rigorous safety protocols.

This appointment by the Department for Transport (DfT) aligns with the government’s vision of fostering a secure and developing drone industry in the UK. The CAA is actively recruiting experts to ensure the necessary oversight and management of these standards.

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