Under UK law, what is required before operating a drone for commercial purposes?

To operate a drone for commercial purposes in the UK, obtaining a Permission for Commercial Operation (PfCO) from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is essential. This permission is a legal requirement that allows individuals or organizations to conduct commercial drone flights while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and operational guidelines outlined by the CAA.

The process of acquiring a PfCO typically involves demonstrating that you have the relevant knowledge, skills, and procedures in place to operate a drone safely in a commercial context. This often includes submitting a detailed operations manual and undergoing a practical flight assessment.

While safety training and pilot assessments may play a role in preparing for the PfCO process, they are not substitutes for the permission itself. This makes obtaining a PfCO a fundamental step in ensuring that commercial drone operations are conducted legally and safely.