UK CAA CAP3015 v2: BVLOS drone DAA policy and 2026 updates

September 26, 2026

Unmanned airspace UK

Overview

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has released Version 2 of its Detect and Avoid (DAA) policy concept, CAP3015, for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. This update clarifies expectations for operators and developers demonstrating DAA capability. Notably, the CAA confirmed that DAA-based tactical air risk mitigation is not required for residual ARC-a operations under UK SORA, leading to the withdrawal of related AMC and GM changes planned for October 1, 2026. This move streamlines BVLOS authorization processes and may accelerate industry adoption.

In Depth

Key Findings

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has published Version 2 of its Detect and Avoid (DAA) policy concept, CAP3015, for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. This significant update sets clearer expectations for BVLOS drone operators and developers regarding how they demonstrate the suitability of their DAA capabilities for proposed operations. Furthermore, the CAA confirmed that DAA-based tactical air risk mitigation is not required for residual ARC-a operations under the UK Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) framework, leading to the withdrawal of associated Acceptable Means of Compliance (AMC) and Guidance Material (GM) changes that were slated for implementation on October 1, 2026.

Technical / Clinical Details

CAP3015 v2 elaborates on the technical requirements and operational guidelines for DAA systems, detailing how drones are expected to detect and avoid collision risks with other aircraft. The updated policy provides more specific guidance, particularly concerning the detection of uncooperative aircraft (those without transponders) and the execution of subsequent avoidance maneuvers. Previously, the development of DAA systems demanded highly advanced technology and substantial costs, acting as a barrier to widespread BVLOS adoption. This change, by reducing the burden for specific low-risk operational scenarios (residual ARC-a), may facilitate the entry of more companies into BVLOS operations.

Background & Context

BVLOS drone operations hold immense potential for efficiency and cost savings across numerous sectors, including extensive infrastructure inspection, cargo delivery, and search and rescue missions. However, their realization necessitates stringent regulations and technical requirements to ensure safety. DAA systems have been identified as a key technology for drones to safely share airspace with manned aircraft. The CAA’s policy update reflects a risk-based approach, aiming to balance innovation with safety by alleviating excessive regulations. This is viewed as part of the UK’s strategy to establish itself as a leading adopter of drone technology.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

The introduction of CAP3015 v2 and the withdrawal of certain air risk mitigation rules represent a crucial step towards accelerating the deployment of BVLOS drone operations in the UK. Operators can now proceed with DAA system implementation under clearer guidelines, which is expected to streamline the type approval process. This has the potential to drive market growth in areas such as commercial drone delivery services, large-scale surveying and mapping, and autonomous inspection of critical infrastructure. Moreover, these developments could influence other national aviation regulatory bodies and contribute to the harmonization of international BVLOS regulations.

Source: https://www.unmannedairspace.info/uncategorized/uk-caa-updates-detect-and-avoid-policy-concept-for-bvlos-operations/

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