Bedford & District Aeromodelling Club

As of January 1 2026, the British Model Flying Association (BMFA) continues to operate under the Article 16 Authorisation from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which provides specific privileges for model aircraft and drone hobbyists that differ from standard "Open Category" rules.

Key 2026 Regulatory Changes
Several significant updates to UK drone law come into force on January 1, 2026:

Lower Weight Threshold for Flyer ID: Anyone flying a drone or model aircraft weighing 100g or more outdoors must now pass the CAA theory test to obtain a Flyer ID. Previously, this was only required for aircraft 250g and above.

Mandatory Class Markings: New drones placed on the UK market from January 1, 2026, must carry a UK Class Mark (UK0 to UK6).

Remote ID Implementation: While Remote ID requirements for most new class-marked drones begin in 2026, model flyers under the Article 16 Authorisation currently have an exemption from Remote ID until January 1, 2028.Core Article 16 Rules for BMFA Members

If you are a member of the BMFA and flying under their specific authorization, the following rules apply:

Registration: You must have a valid Operator ID (costing £11.79/year) if your aircraft weighs over 250g, or over 100g with a camera. This ID must be clearly displayed on your aircraft.

Height Limits: The standard limit is 400ft (120m). However, the Article 16 Authorisation permits flying above 400ft for non-multi-rotor aircraft (like gliders or fixed-wing models) under 7.5kg, provided they remain within Visual Line of Sight (VLOS).

Separation Distances:
Under 250g: No minimum separation distance from uninvolved persons, but you must not fly over crowds.
250g to 7.5kg: Must maintain 30m from uninvolved persons (reduced to 15m for take-off/landing) and 30m from assemblies of people.

First Person View (FPV): You may fly using goggles if you have a competent observer standing next to you who maintains direct unaided visual contact with the aircraft at all times.

Flight Locations: You can fly at established club sites or other suitable areas. Clubs in "built-up areas" must conduct a local risk assessment.

The perfect weekend weather made for a good turnout of pilots and aircraft. Lots of flying over the next few days. ☀️😎😊

The recent sunny weather has got the new flying season off to a good start!
With the strip aerated and rolled it’s in nearly perfect condition! ☀️😎

Excellent evenings flying at our new indoor venue. Thanks to all that turned up and flew, making it a fun evening. ✈️ 🚁 😊