Published on 15 Jul 2025
UK CAA launches electronic conspicuity consultation
Consultation on UK CAA proposals for electronic conspicuity to support the UK's broader strategy for integrated airspace, including BVLOS drone operations.
The UK CAA has launched a consultation on its draft Initial Technical Concept of Operations (ConOps) for Electronic Conspicuity (EC).
The ConOPs (CAP 3140) sets out the CAA's proposed technical requirements, equipage standards, and operational use of EC to support the safe integration of new and existing airspace users - including drones - into the UK's airspace.
EC equips aircraft with the ability to detect and be detected electronically, helping to reduce the risk of mid-air collisions and improve situational awareness.
Electronic conspicuity is a crucial component for BVLOS drone operations - and consultation respondents are encouraged to have their say on how the proposals will enable detect and avoid for UAS technology.
The consultation runs until 23.59 on October 6, 2025. View the consultation here.
Why Electronic Conspicuity (EC) matters for BVLOS drone operations
EC is described as a key enabler for integrating BVLOS drones into non-segregated airspace, i.e., where drones share airspace with other users like manned aircraft.
It helps replace the traditional 'see and avoid' principle with 'detect and be detected' - essential for UAS that operate remotely without a pilot's visual contact.
Within CAP 3140, the CAA describes EC as a key enabler for BVLOS drone operations, but adds that it is part of a broader set of solutions, including Command and Control (C2) links, UAS Traffic Management (UTM), and Ground Infrastructure.
CAA proposals: EC and drones
At the heart of the consultation are nine policy positions described i the ConOps, covering EC standards, interoperability, equipage requirements, and how EC should be used in practice.
As part of this, the CAA focuses on how EC can enable BVLOS drone operations - a cornerstone of future drone delivery, inspection, and data-gathering missions.
Among the proposals, the CAA suggests:
Tactical deconfliction (detecting and avoiding conflicts during flight using real-time sensing and communication) would be the primary mitigation, while strategic deconfliction (planning and managing conflicts before a flight takes place) would enhance risk management. Ground infrastructure would enhance both mitigations, where appropriate.
Within non - segregated airspace, UAS in the Specific Category operating BVLOS, must emit a 978MHz UAT (Universal Access Transceiver) ADS-B signal. The device should function in accordance with the RTCA (Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics) minimum performance standards DO-282B. (It is expected that DO-282C will be the standard from 2027) and of a minimum power yet to be set out within CAP1391 supplementary amendment 2025/01. Emissions must meet SIL (Source Integrity Level) and SDA (System Design Assurance) of at least 1.
Specific Category UAS operating BVLOS in non-segregated airspace must be equipped to receive ADS-B 1090MHz and 978MHz UAT to detect both manned and unmanned aircraft.
Aircraft operators, both manned and unmanned, are responsible for ensuring that their EC device is installed in accordance with the equipment manual and any CAA advice. Pilots must also ensure their device is functioning effectively.
For more details on the UK CAA's Electronic Conspicuity - Initial Technical Concept of Operations (EC ConOps) 2025 (CAP 3140), and to view and respond to the consultation, click here.