Flight Restriction Zones protect airports and aerodromes, and they apply to drones of every weight. Here is how to check whether you are in one and how to get permission to fly.
What an FRZ is
A Flight Restriction Zone surrounds every protected aerodrome in the UK. It typically combines a zone around the aerodrome — often a 2 or 2.5 nautical mile radius — with rectangular extensions projecting from the ends of the runways, usually 5km long and 1km wide. Within that airspace you must not fly a drone without permission, regardless of how small the aircraft is.
This catches a lot of operators out. Even a sub-250g drone, which is otherwise exempt from many rules, needs permission inside an FRZ.
How to check before you fly
- Use a recognised drone-safety app or the CAA’s airspace tools to see FRZ boundaries on a map
- Cross-reference an aeronautical chart for the exact dimensions of the zone and runway extensions
- Check NOTAMs for any temporary restrictions on the day, which can appear at short notice
Requesting permission
Permission comes from the air traffic control unit or the aerodrome operator responsible for the zone. The process varies between airports — some run an online request form, some require a phone call to the tower, and some only grant clearance for specific windows.
- Identify which aerodrome controls the airspace at your intended site
- Contact their ATC or drone-permission service ahead of time — never on spec at the site
- Be ready to give your operator ID, aircraft details, intended height, and the exact location and timing
- Follow any conditions to the letter, including height caps and call-in requirements
Operating safely once cleared
Clearance is conditional, not a blank cheque. Keep within the agreed height and area, maintain visual line of sight, and stay alert for crewed aircraft — they always have priority. If ATC asks you to land, land immediately. Log the permission reference and conditions so you have a record if questioned.
FRZ work is entirely routine for experienced operators, but it rewards planning. Build the permission request into your job timeline rather than treating it as an afterthought on the day.
Need help with your OSC or SORA submission? Our UK compliance experts have completed hundreds of successful submissions.
Get support →