In June 2022, Ofcom launched a consultation to look at the spectrum that UAS use.
26 individuals and organisations, including ARPAS-UK, responded to the Ofcom Consultation.
One of the main issues behind the need for the consultation was that for many years Ofcom have authorised the use of radio equipment on model aircraft and drones operating in visual line of sight via their licence exemption regime. This has been possible as these aircraft use low power equipment whose use would not be likely to cause interference to other users of the spectrum. New UAS technology and applications, especially the ability to fly greater distances and to transmit back more information, such as high quality video, have created new demands for spectrum to support beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) usage.
What Ofcom has decided in brief:
Ofcom have decided to introduce a new UAS Operator Radio licence to authorise the use of radio equipment on drones. The authorisation of this equipment is an enabler for drones to be operated beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). The licence authorises a range of equipment that an operator may choose to use or be required to carry by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The UAS Operator Radio licence will:
- Cover all drones a company or individual operates in the UK and territorial waters but does not cover international flights.
- Have an indefinite duration, subject to the payment of an annual licence fee of £75.
- Authorise a range of specific radio equipment that may be needed for future drone operations, including beacons and safety equipment that may be mandated by the CAA. The list of equipment will be kept under review and, subject to consultation, will be updated to reflect changes in technology or the overarching air safety framework.
- Permit the use of satellite and mobile technologies while requiring the specific agreement of the network operator(s). No transmission will be permitted in the 2.6 GHz band.
This licence does not replace the current licence exemption regime for low power 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz equipment which most drones on the market currently fall under.
This licence authorises spectrum use in accordance with the licence terms and conditions. Drone operators will continue to need to adhere to any air safety requirements and other regulations regarding the operation of their UAS set by the CAA, the UK’s aviation regulator.