We are often asked questions about the laws governing flying model helicopters. The most important consideration is of course safety. Here is some advice taken from the Civil Aviation Authority's model safety leaflet...
Before you fly your model just remember who's responsible for its safety...you are It is an offence to permit an aircraft to endanger any person or property. That applies not just to full-size aircraft but also to models, which are regarded as being as being 'small aircraft'. If you are unsure about any aspect of model aircraft flying, seek advice. Flying Your Model Fly your model from an unobstructed site and keep it a safe distance from any person, vehicle, vessel or structure. Fly in suitable weather and make sure you do not infringe local bylaws. You must never risk endangering full-size aircraft. Always take care to avoid injuries to people or damage to property. Always seek advice from an authoritative source on the suitability of a site if not already established for model flying. If flying radio controlled models, ensure you will not be causing a frequency conflict and interference to other established model fliers in the area, which can be up to 2 miles radius. The bigger the model the greater the responsibility There are additional requirements for bigger models. If it weighs more than 7 kilograms you will require a failsafe and permission to fly from your local air traffic control unit. You should not fly a model weighing more than 7 kilograms at a height exceeding 400ft above the surface except with permission. You are advised not to allow your model get closer than:
Remember that models weighing over 20 kilograms are subject to special inspection requirements for design and construction and can only be flown with prior approval from the Civil Aviation Authority. Before you build get advice There are plenty of sources available. The CAA has published Small (Model) Aircraft: A Guide to Safe Flying (CAP658). Your flying club may have a copy of it or it is available from Documedia, 37 Windsor Street, Cheltenham, GL52 2DG. Price £4, plus £2 postage and packing. Credit Card orders can be telephoned to: 0870 887 1410. Join your local model flying club Most model flying clubs in the UK offer training in radio control flying. All have experienced members who can help with practical advice. You can find out how to contact your local club from a model shop or from any of the organisation listed here. Civil
Aviation Authority British
Model Flying Association British
Association of Radio Controlled Soarers Large
Model Aircraft Association Scottish
Aeromodellers' Association |
*Disclaimer - Note that the information on this page is for information only and is not authoritative. For accurate and up to date information regarding the law, please refer to the CAA website or the BMFA. Since we only teach in the United Kingdom we cannot advise on the laws in other countries. For this information we strongly advise you to refer to your local governing body.