AC101-1 - Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) under 25 kilograms - Operating in compliance with Part 101 Rules [Trial]

Purpose

This Advisory Circular (AC) describes an acceptable means of compliance when operating small remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) that weigh less than 25 kilograms and fly in accordance with Civil Aviation Rule Part 101.

Related rules

This AC relates to Civil Aviation Rule Part 101 Gyrogliders and Parasails, Unmanned Aircraft (including Balloons), Kites, and Rockets Operating Rules.

Change notice

Revision 2 is a substantive update which updates content throughout and removes obsolete content.

This revision also:

• directs participants to CATI:101-1 for the applicable rules in Subpart E
• makes stylistic and formatting changes in line with current AC style and adds a Version History. 

CAA is encouraging drone operators, training providers, and aviation groups to start using the Trial AC from 22nd December and share feedback on what works and what could be improved.

Feedback will be formally collected in March 2026, with an updated version of the AC published later that year to reflect user experience.

Please note: We are working on updates to the web guidance. Some of the guidance in this AC may not align with the web pages. Please use the AC over web guidance while we continue to update the website.