Clear Membership Categories
We have defined a number of membership categories. The number of categories and benefits retained may change from time to time without notice. Members will retain any benefits of their category based on the time of their last annual subscription.

Compliance and Safety
The Terms emphasise compliance with the UK Civil Aviation Authority regulations along with a general requirement to operate drones safely and responsibly.

Subscriber Benefits
Benefits include regulatory and legal updates, networking opportunities, discounted events, and basic legal guidance, all subject to clear disclaimers that this does not constitute formal legal advice.

Obligations and Conduct
There is a strict obligation for members to keep their information accurate, maintain respectful conduct, and—if applicable—hold valid insurance.

Data Protection
We commit to processing personal data in line with the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, and we clarify members’ rights regarding their information.

Disclaimer and Liability
We include disclaimers stating that while general guidance is provided, any specific legal or operational advice must be sought independently. Liability is limited to the extent permitted by law.

Termination and Governing Law
We have a clear framework for suspending or terminating membership in case of non-compliance, non-payment, or misconduct. Disputes are governed by English law.
These provisions will help create a well-regulated and supportive environment for all participants in the drone community, from hobbyists to commercial operators. Please let me know if you have any questions or additional insights you’d like to incorporate. I look forward to finalising these Terms with you and launching the membership scheme.

Terms of Membership for Drone Pilots, Drone Companies, and Enthusiasts
Prepared by Richard Ryan, Commercial Drone Lawyer (UK) at Blakiston’s Chambers

1. Introduction
These Terms of Membership (“Terms”) set out the rights, obligations, and responsibilities of all individuals and organisations who subscribe to Unmanned Support, (a product of Unmanned Support Ltd.) services. By subscribing and paying the applicable fees, members agree to abide by these Terms, any associated policies, and all relevant laws and regulations governing unmanned aviation in the United Kingdom.

2. Membership Categories

Supporter Membership

Supporters are those who do not feel they require the support services provided by Unmanned Support, but who feel that the UK regulatory authorities require a “critical partner”. Supporters receive recognition through the appearance of their username on the Unmanned Support website.
Supporters aspire to safe and proportionate regulation of drones in the UK. Supporter Membership

Suited to those operating recreationally.

Supported Membership

Supported level will suit operators working against declarative Specific category Operational Authorisations such as UKPDRA01 or those operating for commercial gain in the Open category.

You need an organisation that is fighting your corner in the regulation space. You also want the opportunity to network with your peers and access useful operating collateral and discounts.

Partner Membership

Open to corporate bodies or entities with a positive interest in the UK unmanned sector. Membership fees are by negotiation and will reflect the size of the organisation and whether and how you can enhance membership for other subscribers.

3. Membership Benefits

An effective Trade Body: Unmanned Support, through the strength of its membership, undertakes to function as a “critical partner” to the UK drone authorities. Unmanned Support intends to constantly drive for excellence from the regulator and associated bodies and to share progress on issues with the regulated community.

Regulatory Updates: Access to regular updates and views on UK drone regulations.

Legal Insights: Invitations to webinars, seminars, or workshops covering legal and safety considerations, including risk management and insurance requirements.

Networking Opportunities: Access to an online forum or physical networking events to connect with industry professionals, hobbyists, and subject-matter experts.

Training Opportunities: Access to post-UAS qualification training, chosen and designed to help you operate to the highest standards.

Marketing Opportunities: As Unmanned Support grows, those providing verifiable case studies can benefit from the attention the organisation receives.

Discounts and Priority Access: Where offered, discounted or priority access to training courses, conferences, and exclusive events.

Professional Support: Access to basic legal guidance and best practices related to drone operations, subject to appropriate disclaimers (see Section 9 below).

4. Membership Obligations

Compliance with Regulations
All members must comply with the Air Navigation Order 2016 (as amended) and all applicable guidance from the CAA, including the Drone Code and any specific authorisations or exemptions they hold.

Safety and Good Practice
Members must operate drones in a safe and responsible manner, ensuring they do not endanger the public, property, or other airspace users.

Respectful Conduct
Members must show professionalism and respect towards each other in all Unmanned Support-related communications, forums, events, and activities.

Accurate Information
Members must ensure that any registration details and documentation provided to Unmanned Support Ltd. are accurate, up to date. Members warrant that they own the rights or a licence to any images they upload onto the Unmanned Support website.

5. Fees and Payment

Membership fees vary by category and are detailed on the Unmanned Support website or membership application form.

Fees must be paid in full on an annual basis (or as otherwise specified).

Failure to pay fees within the specified period may result in suspension or termination of membership and removal of listing(s)

Payment of a fee in any category does not procure, directly or indirectly, any particular service, nor does it imply any ownership or control of Unmanned Support Ltd.

6. Insurance
Unmanned Support Ltd may require proof of insurance from drone pilots or corporate members if necessary for participation in certain events or activities.

7. Data Protection
Unmanned Support Ltd will process members’ personal data in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Unmanned Support Ltd will use members’ personal data for the purposes of managing membership, informing about relevant activities, and delivering member benefits.

Members have the right to access, rectify, or request deletion of their personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws.

8. Intellectual Property
All materials shared by Unmanned Support Ltd (including legal briefs, training materials, and presentations) remain the intellectual property of Unmanned Support Ltd or the respective authors unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Members may use such materials for personal or internal organisational purposes but must not reproduce, distribute, or exploit the materials for commercial gain without express written permission.

9. Disclaimer of Liability and Legal Advice
While Unmanned Support Ltd may provide general legal and regulatory updates, no part of the membership benefits constitutes formal legal advice. Members should seek independent legal advice for specific matters.

Unmanned Support Ltd denies any liability for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of membership services or materials, except to the extent required by law.

Unmanned Support Ltd will use reasonable skill and care in providing membership services but does not guarantee error-free or uninterrupted access to such services.

10. Suspension or Termination of Membership
Unmanned Support Ltd may suspend or terminate membership if a member:

Fails to comply with these Terms or relevant legal requirements;
Engages in behaviour that could damage Unmanned Support or Unmanned Support Ltd.’s reputation or endanger public safety; or

Fails to pay membership fees within the stated deadline.

Members may terminate their membership at any time by providing written notice, though no refunds will be granted unless required by law or otherwise stated in Unmanned Support Ltd.’s refund policy.

11. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution
These Terms are governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of England and Wales.

Any disputes arising under these Terms that cannot be resolved amicably shall be referred to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

12. Changes to the Terms
Unmanned Support Ltd reserves the right to amend or update these Terms from time to time. Members will be notified of any significant changes and, by continuing their membership, they agree to be bound by the updated Terms.