Ofcom, the UK Communications Authority, and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) are making 978 MHz available for airborne transmission onboard Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) from 11 March 2025. This will enable the use of additional safety equipment (Universal Access Transceiver or UAT) to make other aircraft aware of their position. This change supports longer distance operations, such as going beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), and is part of a wider Government Future Of Flight action plan and the CAA’s Airspace Modernisation strategy.

Use of the 978 MHz frequencies for UAT is standardised internationally, and Ofcom’s licence includes a reference to the relevant CAA document (CAP 1391).

The frequencies used at 978 MHz are part of an aeronautical navigation band that is currently shared with low power radio microphones used for programme making and special events (PMSE). The sharing arrangements were introduced in Ofcom’s 2016 Statement on New Spectrum for Audio PMSE. That Statement made it clear that, as the aeronautical use changes, we will update the availability of PMSE spectrum, in a way that maintains aeronautical safety, via agreement with the CAA.

How to secure or update an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operator Radio Licence to use these frequencies

Ofcom previously set out its decision to enable the use of UAT 978 in its 2022 Statement on Spectrum for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).

The licence is available for £75 at Ofcom’s website.

Ofcom has already authorised some of this equipment via its Innovation and Trial licences – those licensees may continue to operate under current terms for the duration of their licences, and/or apply for an operational licence as above.

Changes to rules on Programme Making and Special Events (PMSE) sharing

Following established processes, Ofcom and the CAA have agreed to update the availability of the PMSE spectrum. The following changes have taken effect:

• We will no longer licence PMSE for outdoor events between the frequencies of 976.5 to 979.5 MHz.
• We will continue to licence these frequencies for indoor PMSE use, as the likelihood of interference into UAT in this situation is negligible. We also believe the likelihood of interference into indoor PMSE is extremely low.
• We will allow additional PMSE use at the following additional frequencies: 1015-1016 MHz; 1044-1045 MHz; 1075-1076 MHz and 1104 to 1105 MHz.Ofcom and the CAA consider that any risk of interference from this additional use is again negligible. Ofcom also amended IR2038 to allow PMSE equipment to access this spectrum.

How does this enable BVLOS?

The joint statement from Ofcom and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regarding the 978 MHz spectrum is a significant step toward enabling Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations at scale for several reasons:

Enabling Airspace Awareness for BVLOS Operations

The authorization of Universal Access Transceivers (UATs) on the 978 MHz frequency allows drones to broadcast their positions, making them visible to other aircraft. This is a critical enabler for safe integration into shared airspace, reducing the risk of mid-air collisions—one of the primary challenges for BVLOS operations.

Regulatory Alignment with International Standards

The 978 MHz spectrum is already used internationally for drone operations, meaning this move aligns the UK with global aviation and drone regulatory standards. This facilitates easier cross-border drone operations and harmonization with Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems, essential for scaling BVLOS drone flights.

Resolving Spectrum Conflicts and Ensuring Reliable Communication

The decision to reallocate 978 MHz from Programme Making and Special Events (PMSE) users in outdoor settings eliminates potential interference issues. With the reallocation, drones operating at long distances can rely on consistent and uninterrupted communication, which is vital for safety in BVLOS operations.

Simplified Licensing for Advanced Drone Operators

While consumer drones remain unaffected, commercial and advanced drone users now have a clear licensing framework via Ofcom and the CAA. This provides a structured pathway for BVLOS approvals, encouraging businesses and industries to invest in large-scale drone operations.

By enabling 978 MHz UATs, Ofcom and the CAA are laying the groundwork for widespread, regulated BVLOS operations in the UK. The move enhances airspace awareness, aligns with international standards, supports high-value applications, and ensures reliable spectrum access—key enablers for drones to operate safely and efficiently at scale.