If you fly a drone or model aircraft that weighs less than 500kg for recreation, sport, or as a hobby, you can choose whether to have insurance.
If you fly for any commercial reason, you must have third party insurance as a minimum.
For example, you must have insurance if you:
- get paid to take pictures or record video
- get paid to carry out surveys
- provide delivery services
- use your drone for work, such as on a farm, park, or estate
- use a drone in an educational setting, such as a school, college, or university
Although insurance is optional if you only fly for recreation, sport, or as a hobby, remember you’re responsible for your actions. You could be held liable for any injury or damage you cause, so you may want to consider getting third party insurance.
Insurance must comply with the regulatory requirements in Assimilated Regulation (EU) 785/2004. Ask your insurer to ensure your insurance does.
Who is responsible for meeting the insurance requirements
Operators of drones and unmanned aircraft are responsible for ensuring they have appropriate insurance.
UK legislation that details insurance requirements is set out in Civil Aviation (Insurance) Regulations 2005 (opens in a new tab).