Latest Article 16 BMFA / CAA Authorisation – Commences 1/1/2025

Latest Article 16 BMFA / CAA Authorisation – Commences 1/1/2025

The CAA have issued the latest BMFA Article 16 Authorisation and it comes into force on 1^st January 2025 (link below).

BMFA  Article 16 Authorisation – 8th Edition Commences 1/1/2025

It expires on 31/12/2025.

As below the main changes are:

Everybody now needs a CAA Flyer ID number to fly lawfully and has to carry proof they have one whilst flying.

There are now only 2 ways to get a CAA Flyer ID number by taking and passing one of the online tests.

Article 16 Section 3.12

1. Any remote pilot operating in accordance with this authorisation must demonstrate a suitable level of pilot competence, by passing either (a) or (b) below:
2. a) CAA online DMARES test
   https://register-drones.caa.co.uk/individual/register-and-take-test-to-fly
3. b) BMFA online test (RCC)
   https://rcc.bmfa.uk/rcc
4. Remote pilots demonstrating competence through either method must also confirm to the BMFA that they have read and understood the conditions and restrictions that apply to them when flying unmanned aircraft in accordance with this authorisation.

Article 16 Section 3.10

a. Have the appropriate remote pilot competency as defined in section 3.12 and carry a proof of competency while operating the model aircraft.

b. Have the appropriate Flyer I.D. as defined in section 4.9 of this OA.

Notes

CAA DMARES Test
If you take and pass the CAA online DMARES test the Flyer ID number will be emailed straight back to you and you are covered.

BMFA Achievement Scheme Tests taken prior to 31/12/2020
If you were expecting a CAA Flyer ID based on passing a BMFA achievement test prior to 31/12/2020 and have not received it yet, it will not happen now. You will have to take and pass one of the online tests (CAA DMARES or BMFA RCC).

If you have already been issued with a CAA Flyer ID number solely based on you passing a BMFA achievement test prior to 31/12/2020, you can use the number for now, but these numbers will be revoked sometime in 2025 unless you take and pass one of the online tests. You should receive an email from the BMFA shortly explaining the reason why and what you have to do.

BMFA RCC

1. If you take and pass the BMFA RCC you have to upload the RCC pass details onto your profile on the BMFA membership portal (it explains how to do it when you take the test). You have to agree for BMFA to share your data with the CAA. There is a box in your profile on the BMFA membership portal for you to tick. The BMFA will then forward the details to the CAA and the CAA will email you the number.
2. If you are expecting a CAA Flyer ID number based on you holding a BMFA RCC and have not received it, you will have to contact the BMFA office. If your details with the BMFA & CAA do not match exactly, the details are wrong or missing (date of birth, initials, middle names, email address etc.) they will not issue one.
3. Likewise if you have an RCC and also an old expired Flyer ID from a few years back and the BMFA do not have the details (which they don’t) the CAA will not process the Flyer ID application.

Checking Details with the CAA

You can check your details on the CAA website (link below) including the status of your Operator number and Flyer ID number. You need the email address you are registered with and your date of birth. You input those details and then a code is emailed back to your email address. You input the code and you can then access the site.
https://register-drones.caa.co.uk/my-registration

If you just want to check an Operator number or Flyer ID number, you can use the link below. You have to know the number and exact name of the person. If they have used initials or middle names it has to match exactly or it will show as no record.
https://register-drones.caa.co.uk/check-a-registration

If you do not have a currrent CAA Flyer ID Number, please do not fly at the PANDAS field until you have. You would be flying unlawfully and most likely would not be insured.

Martin Lynn,
PANDAS Chairman.
Email: martinlynn59@gmail.com
Mobile: 07802 725 231