Why do I need an A2 CofC?
The A2 CofC enables operators of small drones to fly close to people. It permits the following:
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A2 Transitional Aircraft: A Transitional Period has been introduced in the UK, running from now until an extended date of up to January 1, 2026. During this time, an A2 CofC enables operators of drones without a class mark and weighing up to 2kg to fly in the A2 subcategory under Transitional provisions - which stipulates no flights closer than 50m horizontally from uninvolved people.
This applies to the following DJI aircraft: Mavic 3 Series, Mavic 3 Enterprise Series, Mavic 2 Series, Phantom 4 Series, Phantom 3 Series, and the Mavic Air 2 and Air 2S.
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A1 Transitional Aircraft: Holders of an A2 CofC can operate non-class-marked drones, with a take-off weight of between 250g and 500g, in the A1 subcategory, under A1 Transitional provisions, during the Transitional Period (extended to January 1, 2026). This stipulates that there must not be any intentional flight over uninvolved persons.
This applies to the following DJI aircraft: Mavic Air, Spark, and the DJI Mini series if their take-off weight exceeds 250g.
- Class-marked Drones: The UK CAA has announced that class marks on drones (ie C0-C4) issued in the EU are currently not recognised in the UK. This is because no relevant designated standards, Market Surveillance Authority, or conformance assessment bodies have been established in the UK, so it is currently not possible to comply UK class marking requirements. Currently in the UK, an A2 CofC is only relevant for A1 and A2 Transitional aircraft, for operations in the A1 and A2 subcategories.
Sources
This answer was generated from information sourced from the following pages:
- A2 CofC Drone Training Course - www.heliguy.com/products/a2-cofc-drone-training-course
- heliguy™ Blog - www.heliguy.com/blogs/posts/
- Drone Tutorials - www.heliguy.com/pages/help/
