UK Barrister Leads Push for Targeted Improvements to New Drone Regulations – sUAS News

Richard Ryan LL.B (Hons), LL.M., M.A., a specialist barrister in unmanned aviation law, is leading an industry-backed effort to secure proportionate and practical refinements to the UK’s newly updated drone regulatory framework.

Following the introduction of the Unmanned Aircraft (Amendment) Regulations 2025 and the associated Offences and Consequential Amendments Regulations 2025, Ryan has been working closely with Parliament, regulators and industry bodies to address several areas where the new rules risk creating operational difficulties for responsible drone pilots and organisations.

Recognising the rapid growth of both recreational and commercial drone activity in the UK, Ryan has focused on four targeted improvements that enhance safety, reduce unintended risks and strengthen public confidence in drone operations.

1. Remote ID – Protecting Pilot Privacy While Preserving Accountability

Current drafting requires drones to broadcast live identification data. Ryan is advocating that public-facing Remote ID should show the aircraft’s location, not the pilot’s precise live location, which could expose lawful pilots to harassment or confrontation. Enforcement agencies would still access full data, ensuring accountability is maintained.

2. A3 “Building Distance” Rule – A More Proportionate Approach

The new A3 rule requires pilots to keep 50 metres away from any building. Ryan proposes refining this to “occupied buildings”, with a clear owner/occupier consent exception. This maintains safety while preventing unnecessary restrictions on flying near empty or rural buildings.

3. Clear Definition of “Mainly Enclosed” Areas

The legislation introduces a carve-out for operations in “wholly or mainly enclosed” spaces but does not define the term. Ryan is pressing for a simple, objective definition—such as at least 75% lateral enclosure plus a roof or netting—to support indoor flight venues, training centres, clubs and youth organisations.

4. Transitional Measures for Legacy Aircraft

Many existing drones cannot be retrofitted with features such as night-operation lights or certain Remote ID modules. Ryan is proposing a “where fitted” rule for lights, reasonable-care protections where Remote ID cannot yet be enabled, and a single authoritative CAA dataset for restricted airspace, with a safe-harbour for pilots who use it.

High-Level Engagement With Parliament and Regulators

Ryan has been collaborating with members of the House of Lords, who are engaging directly with the Minister of State for Transport to seek a short amending Statutory Instrument and immediate updates to CAA guidance (including the Drone Code and Flyer ID materials).

These proposals have been designed so they do not dilute safety standards, but instead ensure the rules are clear, enforceable and workable for the UK’s growing drone ecosystem.

Industry Reaction

Early responses from stakeholders across multiple sectors—including commercial operators, model aircraft associations, FPV communities and training organisations—indicate strong support for these clarifications. Many in the sector view the proposals as a measured, safety-focused refinement that will reduce confusion, prevent unnecessary enforcement issues and maintain public trust.

About Richard Ryan

Richard Ryan is a UK barrister specialising in drone and unmanned aviation law, with long-standing involvement in supporting operators, clubs, innovators and SMEs. He regularly advises on regulatory compliance, enforcement, aviation safety, commercial operations, BVLOS development and airspace integration.

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