UAS > 150 Kg

EuroUSC™ is authorised by the UK CAA (DAI/9932/09) to assess the ‘Airworthiness’ of Light Unmanned Aircraft Systems of 150Kg and below. The Light UAS Scheme™ (LUASS™) covers the Design, Construction (including functionality of embedded FCS software), Airworthiness, Operation, Pilot/Crew Qualifications and Exemption or Permission to operate. In 2004 EuroUSCTM obtained the first approval in the UK for a light UAS to operate from a Civil Airport.

0 - 7 Kg

In January 2010 the UK Air Navigation Order (CAP 393) was updated to cover UAS below 7Kg.  Article 167 now has criteria for Small Unmanned Surveillance Aircraft (SUSA) which allow operation over up to 1000 people provided they are under the control of the operator.  Also operating close to buildings and structures is allowed.

Although the UK CAA set no rules concerning insurance, commercial operators are advised that within UK law they would be held negligent if they have not adequately insured their operations. 

 The advent of Article 167 has enabled insurers to better understand this sector of the UK commercial market and to offer the relevant insurance to cover operations at this level.

Operator Requirements Summary:

Airworthiness:          No requirements

Pilot qualifications:    Basic National UAS Certificate - SUA (BNUC-STM) 

Insurance:               SUSA Design and Construction Certificate

7 – 20Kg (MTOM)

Article 166 of the UK Air Navigation Order (CAP 393) sets slightly stricter guidelines for aircraft between 7kg and 20kg.  The key difference is that you cannot operate directly over people and must maintain greater separation from buildings and structures. 

Operator Requirements Summary:

Airworthiness:          No requirements

Pilot qualifications:    Basic National UAS Certificate- SUA (BNUC-STM) 

Insurance:               SUA Design and Construction Certificate

20 – 150Kg

For aircraft between 20Kg and 150Kg Article 166 of the UK Air Navigation Order (CAP 393) applies.  The greater mass of the aircraft also brings with it airworthiness requirements.  A design and construction certificate is required as well as greater emphasis on Crew/Pilot qualification.

Operator Requirements Summary:

Airworthiness:          Design and Construction Certificate

Pilot qualifications:    Basic National UAS Certificate (BNUCTM) 

Insurance:               Design and Construction Certificate

> 150Kg

Aircraft above 150Kg will still be subject to oversight by the National Authority if they are:

Emergency Services (Police, Fire)

Research and Development (prototypes)

All other aircraft are dealt with by EASA.  In the UK contact the UK CAA to clarify your particular circumstances.