Light UAS < 20Kg (MTOM)
EuroUSC™ is the UK CAA Approved Organisation (DAI/9932/09) for assessing 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 EuroUSC™ obtained the first approval in the UK for a light UAS to operate from a Civil Airport.
Light UAS 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.
Operator Requirements Summary:
Airworthiness: ANO Article 166 (2)
Pilot qualifications: Basic National UAS Certificate - SUA (BNUC-S™)
Light UAS 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: ANO Article 166 (2)
Pilot qualifications: Basic National UAS Certificate - SUA (BNUC-S™)