UK Civil Aviation Authority appointed to oversee safety standards for drones

On Monday 17 March 2025, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, named the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) as the UK’s drone Market Surveillance Authority (MSA).

From 1 January 2026, drones operating in the Open Category – which covers low-risk drone flights and leisure activities – will be subject to product standards under a framework known as ‘Class Marking’, improving the safety and security of the sector.

The MSA will be responsible for ensuring required standards for drones are met by manufacturers, as well as importers and distributors, and intervening when there is non-compliance. It means drone users will have more confidence that drones they purchase are safe and comply with safety standards.

More information can be found on our website.