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Salary: £55,000 to £65,000 (dependent on experience)
Contract Type: Permanent – Full time
Location: Gatwick – Hybrid
Visa Restrictions: This position does not offer visa sponsorship.
We are the UK’s aviation and aerospace regulator and recognised as a world leader in its field. Our activities are diverse, enabling the aviation industry to meet the highest safety standards, and we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the constantly evolving aviation environment.
The Role
Following the announcement from the UK government that the CAA has been named as the MSA (Market Surveillance Authority) for Open Category Drones, the CAA is now looking for two people to take on the role of MSA Specialists. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a background in investigation, enforcement, product safety, quality assurance, data/risk analysis or simply drones in general, who is excited by the idea of joining a completely new team and helping to shape it as the function matures. Prior experience working in an MSA function is not a prerequisite.
The MSA function will carry out the activities of ensuring required standards for RPAS are met by manufacturers and other economic operators (e.g. importers and distributors) and intervening when there is non-compliance. This will involve executing the surveillance and control of products placed on or entering the market under UK Regulation (EU) 2019/945. In addition, the MSA function is responsible for implementing and overseeing the conformity assessment framework in the UK, ensuring manufacturers demonstrate compliance with designated standards applicable for class marked RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems).
Core Accountabilities
Market Surveillance and Monitoring:
Risk Assessment and Product Investigations:
Corrective Action and Product Restrictions:
MSA Policy and Processes:
About You
Minimum essential requirements for the role:
What Can We Offer You?
The RPAS industry is a healthy, fast paced and highly innovative segment. If you are the kind of person that enjoys a broad spectrum of novel and exciting challenges, then this is a phenomenal team and time to join. If you feel you have the knowledge base to contribute, then this role offers you a fantastic opportunity to be instrumental to this burgeoning industry’s development and success.
Additional Information
For many appointments within the CAA, these roles require access to operationally sensitive infrastructure and/or Nationally Protected information. For these roles the post holders must undergo National Security Vetting and achieve the appropriate level of clearance.
CTC – To be vetted we will usually expect a reasonable period of residency in the UK so that meaningful checks can be undertaken. For this role this will need to be 3 years.
If you do not meet these requirements, we may not be able to accept your application.
For more information on CTC and SC clearance please visit – Vetting explained – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
The CAA values high ethical standards and personal integrity among employees. If invited for interview you will be asked to complete a declaration of interest.
Relocation & Property
The CAA will be relocating from Aviation House (Our Gatwick Office) to new premises in a few years’ time. Our move is driven by strategic, operational and environmental considerations.
We will be moving to a new local home, up to a 15-mile radius of Aviation House, to minimise disruption for our valued colleagues and customers.
We are now working with colleagues and visitors to understand what we need in our new office, before we start our property search. We will sell Aviation House and land, vacate the site and move to new premises, but we do not expect to move before 2028
Inclusivity
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and celebrate our diversity ensuring all are backgrounds included here at the CAA. As a member of the Disability Confident scheme, applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a role with us will be guaranteed an interview.
Our Benefits
We offer a range of excellent benefits such as:
Our Values
Do The Right Thing, Never Stop Learning, Build Collaborative Relationships, Respect Everyone – For more information please Click Here
Closing Date: Friday 6th June 2025
Interview Date: w/c 16th June 2025
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
No recruitment agencies please.
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“Our investment alongside the new Future of Flight Industry Group will bring together tech experts, drone operators, flying vehicle manufacturers and local communities to identify where change needs to happen.”
With safety at the heart of these advancements, the Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO) is driving smarter regulation to cut red tape while ensuring high safety standards. It will support the DfT and CAA in enabling faster, integration of drones and flying taxi industries, helping businesses grow and innovate.
This includes consulting on the mandatory use of new electronic conspicuity standards and technologies, which allow aircraft to share their location electronically, helping drones and crewed aircraft fly safely alongside each other. By making approvals quicker and operations more efficient, this will open new opportunities for the industry while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Science Minister, Lord Vallance quote
“These regulatory reforms for drones – requiring all aircraft to share their location – will make drone operations safer and therefore speed up approvals, allowing them to operate near airports and simplifying their use for delivering medical supplies – while unlocking further commercial opportunities.
“This is a practical step to cut red tape and a great piece of progress for the Regulatory Innovation Office, growing the UK’s position as a world leader in emerging technologies and helping drive the growth that will deliver our Plan for Change.”
In addition, as previously confirmed by the Chancellor, plans are now underway to simplify regulations to enable 2-year airspace change for drone operations. This will enable operators to fly safely for longer and gather data to inform future services.
Other changes will simplify regulations to enable emergency services including firefighters and paramedics to use drone services, as well as noise exemptions for drone trials within the Airspace Change Process, and simplifying the drone operational application process to enable them to get flying faster and easier.
Furthermore, the regulator, drone operators, flying vehicle innovators and local authorities will come together with Government at the Future of Flight Industry Group to help guide the government on its mission to transform technology in aviation.
Part of the Government’s Plan for Change, the group will focus on how to unlock the benefits of future aviation technologies to propel the country’s economic growth forward. It will look at how Government can harness the potential of technology and create a culture of innovation, with the aim of improving everyday challenges like emergency across the public sector face, while helping cut carbon emissions.
The Minister for Aviation will co-chair the group, alongside Duncan Walker, CEO, Skyports.
Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports and Co-Chair of the Future of Flight Industry Group, said:
“This additional government funding is a vital boost for the UK’s leadership in next-generation aviation. This investment will accelerate the development and deployment of innovative flight technologies, from complex drone operations to advanced air mobility solutions.
“I welcome this commitment, which will not only drive progress towards a more sustainable and connected future but also deliver significant economic benefits, high-value jobs and export opportunities across the UK. I look forward to continuing to work in close partnership with government and the regulator to turn these opportunities into reality.”
The funding will be divided between the Civil Aviation Authority, receiving £16.5m in 2025/26, to deliver a regulatory programme to enable drones to fly Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and progress toward routine use of air taxis (eVTOLs) in UK skies.
This includes publishing a piloted eVTOL “roadmap”, development of “drone pathways” for industry to follow and consulting on concept of operations for uncrewed traffic management (UTM) and Detect and Avoid (DAA) technology. This will make it quicker and easier for industry to prove the safety of these new technologies, deliver the necessary digital infrastructure and make sure that people, property and other aviation remain safe and secure when these new technologies fly in our skies.
Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, said:
“Flying taxis will transform the way we move — making it quicker, quieter, and cleaner to travel, while connecting communities and supporting essential services.
“The UK has an incredible opportunity to lead the world in this new era of aviation, delivering not just greener transport but real economic growth and skilled jobs.
“This latest funding is another welcome step towards seeing that ambition realised and our world-leading aircraft flying in British skies from 2028.”
In addition, the Future Flight Challenge, will receive up to £5 million from the Department for Transport and Innovate UK, to support industry to turn these new technologies into profitable business that benefits communities and support growth. This will include regional demonstrations and supporting development of commercial drone and air taxi solutions.
Mike Biddle Executive Director Net Zero, Innovate UK said:
“Innovate UK is excited to build on the highly successful work of the Future Flight Challenge by working in partnership with DfT through this joint funding. We look forward to working with industry, end-users, DfT, DSIT and the CAA as we accelerate the transition from innovation to commercial operations.”
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Published date: 20 February 2025
Open early engagement – This means that a procurement idea is currently active, it is in the early stage of development and judging interest from potential suppliers.
United Kingdom
3655
20 February 2025
28 February 2025
Yes
No
Background Information:
In November 2023, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) published a consultation titled ‘The Review of UK Unmanned Aircraft Systems Regulations.’ This consultation sought public and industry feedback on proposed regulatory framework for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), commonly known as drones. The CAA proposed to implement product standards for drones primarily used in the ‘Open’ Category.
Manufacturers and economic operators (e.g. importers and distributors) would need to ensure their drones comply with designated technical standards. UK Regulation (EU) 2019/945 sets out the need for a Market Surveillance Authority (MSA), responsible for the oversight of drone product regulations. The role of an MSA is a generic function used in many different sectors that use product standards within their regulatory framework.
The Secretary of State for the DfT is responsible for appointing an organisation as the MSA. At the time of releasing this notice, no organisation has formally been given this role in legislation. The CAA is exploring how the MSA oversight framework could be implemented for the RPAS sector.
RPAS Testing Service Provider requirements
The MSA has a legislative obligation to carry out evaluations of drone products if the MSA believes a product presents a risk to health or safety, as per Article 36 of UK Regulation (EU) 2019/945. The MSA may choose to contract with third-party experts (‘RPAS Testing Service Providers’) to perform the product evaluations. Using third-party experts would enable the MSA to leverage the required technical expertise and ensure value for money by reducing permanent costs for the MSA.
RPAS Testing Service Providers may be expected to perform a variety of product evaluations for class marked drones which is provided in the RFI. This requires technical knowledge and expertise across performance and design requirements, noise levels, verification procedures, manufacturer manuals, geo-awareness, and remote identification features, among others. Also, RPAS Testing Service Providers would require the capability to test non-drone specific product standards related to product safety. They may also be requested to conduct product evaluations for any other concerns related to public health, safety and security.
Commercial Approach
We are considering how the MSA could procure the RPAS Testing Service Provider services. One option could be to establish a procurement framework for the RPAS Testing Service Providers via the PCR 2015 regulations. The suppliers on this potential procurement framework would require the capability to perform some, if not all, of the product evaluations specified.
Should you be interested in this potential procurement and wish to receive a copy of the RFI and an invite to the early market engagement session, please email [email protected]
Follow the instructions given in the description or the more information section.
Scott Taggart
CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY
GATWICK
RH60YR
England
+443301382097
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The examples of templates of Operations Manuals for RPAS operators with and without approval to carry dangerous goods as cargo have been updated in line with changes to the 2025-2026 Edition of the ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air.
Operators should use the template that is appropriate to their operation and complete it according to their company’s procedures, instructions and policies in line with Guidance on the Carriage of Dangerous Goods as Cargo for UAS/RPAS Operators in the Specific Category provided by CAP 2555.
SW2025/026
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Dear Operator,
We are writing to you because you currently hold a PDRA-01 based Operational Authorisation (OA) to fly UAS in the Specific Category.
PDRA-01 based OAs will not be impacted by the introduction of the UK SORA Policy. PDRA-01 is under review, but it is very unlikely that there will be any changes to PDRA-01 before 31 March 2026. We plan on consulting before making any changes.
However, as an operator in the Specific Category you may wish to find out more about upcoming changes to UK policy, including the introduction of UK SORA.
Regards
Head of RPAS (Applications and Oversight)
Manager FS&I Policy
Introducing UK Specific Operation Risk Assessment (UK SORA)
UK Specific Operation Risk Assessment (UK SORA) will replace the current OSC methodology detailed in CAP 722A, which will be withdrawn in Q2 2025.
UK SORA will make risk assessments for UAS operators more transparent and consistent, while the new digital UK SORA Application Service is designed to deliver a more streamlined application process.
UK SORA is a more structured approach to conducting a risk assessment for UAS operations and is based on the Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems (JARUS) SORA v2.5.
You can find out more about UK SORA on the CAA website.
How will a SORA based application differ from an OSC based application?
A UK SORA based application has several benefits over the existing OSC based method.
Your current Operational Authorisation (OA) is not affected until it expires
If you have a current OSC based OA, it will remain valid until its expiry date. If you intend to renew your Authorisation, it is essential that you start to consider how you will renew now.
Renewing your current Operational Authorisation (OA)
You can renew your OSC based OA using the OSC methodology, three months prior to it expiring, using the OSC methodology but only before the UK SORA Application Service is live. Once the UK SORA Application Service is live, you will not be able to renew your OSC based OA, and you must apply for a UK SORA based OA.
Applying for a new Operational Authorisation (OA)
If you want to apply for anew OA between now and UK SORA coming into force, you should continue to use the current OSC method.
If you want to apply for anew OA after UK SORA comes into force, you should use the new digital UK SORA Application Service.
Changes to Remote Pilot Competence (RPC)
New RPC policy supports UKSORA by introducing more advanced levels of Remote Pilot competencies for a wide range of increasingly complex operational scenarios.
Remote Pilots will be able to train through an approved Recognised Assessment Entity (RAE) to one of the new competency standards required depending on the complexity of any intended operation.
The GVC is also being retained, the complexity of the operation will dictate the level of competence required.
What are Recognised Assessment Entities – Flightworthiness (RAE(F))?
RAE(F)s are external organisations that may be used by operators and manufacturers to validate evidence of compliance for technical requirements as part of UK SORA applications where this is required – for example, higher complexity operations where higher levels of assurance are required.
RAE(F)s, much like current RAEs, are likely to charge a fee for their services, however we expect use of an RAE(F), and/or a SAIL Marked UAS, to significantly reduce application processing time.
We anticipate most Operators will opt to use an RAE(F) to assess technical evidence, where this is required, rather than the CAA, although the use of an RAE(F) is optional. We are already working to establish the first RAE(F) in time for the launch of UK SORA.
As the industry scales up, capacity for technical assessment of UAS will also scale up, through growth of RAE(F)s, much like the current RAE model for Pilot Competence.
What are SAIL Marked UAS?
The SORA is based on a series of SAIL levels, which determine how much, and what, evidence is required for an application to be authorised. SAIL means Specific Assurance and Integrity Level.
The ‘SAIL Mark’ concept is where an RAE(F) works directly with UAS manufacturers during development. By validating Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) evidence, it will be possible to deliver a ‘SAIL Mark’ against a particular make & model of UAS, aligned to the SAIL levels within SORA in which it is safe to operate. An applicant could then utilise a ‘SAIL Marked UAS’ in an application to reduce the technical evidence required. The use of the SAIL mark concept is optional, although we expect its use to significantly reduce application processing time.
Key dates
What does this mean for current PDRA-01 based Operational Authorisation(OA) holders?
PDRA-01 OAs are excluded from this update. PDRA01 is not impacted by the introduction of the UK SORA Policy.
What support can I get completing a SORA based application?
We are planning a programme of support over the next year to help operators move to the SORA methodology.
This will start with two webinars which will be published on the CAA YouTube channel to support the launch of UK SORA:
These webinars will be launched in line with the UK SORA Policy in February 2025.
Following this, we are planning further updates to the industry and support to help operators through the process of using SORA for the first time.
We are committed to providing further help and support as we approach the implementation of UK SORA and the UK SORA Application Service. If there are any questions you have about the rollout or application of UK SORA on your operation, please email them to [email protected].
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To ensure that environmental impact considerations are integrated into the development of the airspace change masterplan, the UK Civil Aviation Authority must ensure that the masterplan is subject to a strategic environmental assessment (SEA) and a Habitats Regulations assessment (HRA). These assessments are a legal requirement.
The first stage of each of these assessments is to decide what they must cover, including the approach we propose to use. You can give us your views via our consultation on our dedicated webpage. The consultation closes on 8 May 2023.
The masterplan is being developed by the Airspace Change Organising Group to coordinate the airspace changes that will upgrade and modernise UK airspace at a system level.SW2023/063
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Salary: £37,513 up to £45,000 dependent upon experience
Contract Type: Permanent
We are the UK’s aviation regulator and recognised as a world leader in its field. Our activities are diverse, enabling the aviation industry to meet the highest safety standards, and we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the constantly evolving aviation environment.
Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), otherwise known as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), is one of the most dynamic, technologically innovative, and generally ground-breaking forces in aviation today. As a member of the RPAS team, within the RPAS business unit, you’ll have the unique opportunity to influence this burgeoning area of the aviation landscape.
The Role
We’re seeking a Technical Surveyor to join our RPAS division to help us meet the requirements of this dynamic and growing segment. Your main role will see you manage, assess, and approve applications for RPAS Operational Authorisations.
There are several different types of application that this role will need to evaluate. These include approval applications for Recognised Assessment Entities, Exemptions from the Air Navigation Order, and Operational Authorisations. To support these applications, you will need to the review any associated learning material and procedures as well as perform detailed examination of associated Operating Safety Cases. This is to ensure the operators remain compliant, that they are held to the regulatory standards and that most importantly the safety of the public is safeguarded.
Another significant part of the role is auditing. As part of this you’ll carry out both desktop and onsite audits with our customers to confirm their compliance. To this end an adaptable and analytical mind set is often required to effectively evaluate the associated risks and make determinations based upon them. Additionally, collaboration is crucial as you’ll work closely with other subject matter experts across the CAA to reach viable and balanced solutions, and work alongside other Surveyors and Technical Inspectors to deliver output.
This is a fantastic position for someone who, although not a professional in RPAS, appreciates the scope and scale of the challenges such an innovative and technologically dynamic segment faces and is driven to ensure a safe, fair and equitable environment. It would provide an exceptional entry into regulatory and assessment roles for someone with operational RPAS experience.
About You
What can we offer you?
You’ll benefit from an organisation passionate about your development and training in this exciting area. Working to a structured development plan, you will join an experienced and dynamic team who have a passion for RPAS safety and a close eye on this developing and fast paced industry.
Additional Information
For many appointments within the CAA, these roles require access to operationally sensitive infrastructure and/or Nationally Protected information. For these roles the post holders must undergo National Security Vetting and achieve the appropriate level of clearance.
To be vetted we will usually expect a reasonable period of residency in the UK so that meaningful checks can be undertaken. This can either be 3 years or 5 years depending on the level required (CTC or SC). If you do not meet these requirements, we may not be able to accept your application. For more information please visit – Vetting explained – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Given the impact of Covid-19, it’s likely that you will work remotely to begin with as we plan for a return to work within the government guidelines.
Working With Us
We offer a range of excellent benefits such as flexible working arrangements, free onsite gym at Gatwick, discounted gym membership for London, 28 days annual leave, additional 5 days leave purchase scheme, a generous pension scheme and much more!
We are on a journey towards being increasingly adaptable, where our colleagues collaborate as part of cross-functional teams. This approach ensures we never stop learning together. It also means that you may become involved in activities that take you out of your day to day role, providing you with opportunities to develop and grow your career with us.
We have embraced hybrid working and offer flexible working patterns, being open to having a conversation about what works for you. We know where and when we work is important in achieving a work-life balance.
We are passionate about diversity and ensuring all are included at the CAA. We are an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We use fair and inclusive selection approaches to hire the best person for the job based on merit alone.
As a member of the Disability Confident scheme, applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a role with us will be guaranteed an interview. If you require an adjustment for any reason, please let us know.
Our Values
Do The Right Thing, Never Stop Learning, Build Collaborative Relationships, Respect Everyone – For more information please Click Here
Closing Date: 12 March 2023
Interview Date: This assessment is made up of two parts, a written exercise w/c 20th March with onsite interviews w/c 3rd of April 2023.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
No recruitment agencies please.
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I placed my rant hat fully on my head yesterday, and in many ways (most) just shouting about it does nothing. So before opening a Friday adult beverage I thought I would have a crack at pulling myself towards myself.
I think it’s important to frame what is expected of our gatekeepers, these are five frames of reference that I could think of.
At the moment the CAA, EASA, FAA, CAASA and all the other aviation acronyms tell the industry what they demand of operators, is it not time for the other side to show its requirements?
Draft clear and concise guidelines and regulations that apply to the use of drones. These guidelines should cover things like sadly, drone registration, pilot certification, and airspace restrictions. If these evolve before changes are promulgated the folks communicating the changes should have a clear understanding of their implications to incumbent operators.
Industry standards for the design and manufacture of drones. By working with drone manufacturers and other industry stakeholders, regulators can help to ensure that drones are designed and built to meet high standards for safety and reliability. Standards created from data collected, not from thumb suck safety information. These standards should hold worldwide.
This can be done by providing incentives for research and development. This should only be undertaken with established entities that actually do the work or a part of it that they seek to improve. Grand ideas based on things that don’t yet exist should not be entertained.
4. Ensure Compliance and Enforcement
Monitoring drone activity and enforcing regulations where necessary. By holding operators accountable for their actions, when folks are foolish act.
That previous comment is the stick, there really should be more carrot, in the form of training regulators can play an important role in providing education and training to drone operators. There really should be closer ties with model associations around the world but no attempt should be made to give them a golden ticket of exclusivity.
I admit this has been a bit of a rush as I want to get to that adult beverage.
I will reiterate what I said before all of us in the industry want a safe secure digital sky. That’s a given.
We also expect regulators who are paid for by the industry to be working for us efficiently.
Time for some sort of performance standard or ranking of them by drone drivers. An sUAS News drone industry insight report that will only cost $XYZ
Bottoms up
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