GM1 UAS.SPEC.050(1)(L) Responsibilities of the UAS Operator

CAA ORS9 Decision No. 57

UAS.SPEC.050(1)(L)(i) GREEN FLASHING LIGHT

A green flashing light is required under UAS.SPEC.050(1)(l) for all Specific category operations, however the CAA has the ability to exempt from this requirement via the Operational Authorisation process, where suitable.

If a UAS Operator has an operational need to not carry a green flashing light, then they should request this exemption as part of the OA application process. Such circumstances may include operations where the UA is equipped with standard aircraft lighting in accordance with the rules of the air.

Unless exempted via this mechanism, UAS operated in the Specific category not already equipped with a green flashing light, will need to be fitted with one.

UAS.SPEC.050(1)(L)(ii) REMOTE ID

According to Article 40 of UK Regulation (EU) 2019/945 and UAS.SPEC.050 of UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, operations in the Specific category shall take place only with a function, active and up-to-date direct remote identification system from 1st January 2026 onwards. However, the CAA can issue an exemption via an Operational Authorisation enabling flights without direct remote identification in the Specific category. To ensure harmonisation across the Open and Specific categories and across different operations, the CAA intends to provide automatic exemption from direct remote identification in the Specific category until 1st January 2028, unless using a UK Class Maked UAS, in which case Remote ID requirements will not be routinely exempted from. During this transition phase a UAS Operator may have an operational need to not use Remote ID when using a class marked UAS. The UAS Operator should outline this requirement as part of their application, with suitable rationale.

After the transition period ends in 2028, Remote ID will be required for any Specific Category Operation. Any operational requirement to be exempted from this, will need to be made during the application process.