Scheme Summary
If you plan to build and fly a model aircraft in the UK of any type which weighs over 25kg MTOM (full of fuel) the most straightforward and lowest cost route is to have the aircraft inspected and flight tested in the over 25kg scheme operated by the LMA on behalf of the UK CAA.
The Over 25kg scheme covers aircraft throughout their service life from initial build and proves that the aircraft is flightworthy and every named pilot is competent to fly it.
The scheme is operated under the LMA’s article 16 operating authorisation and may only be used by current LMA members.
The LMA has a network of inspectors and flight test witnesses around the country who will be able to help with your aircraft, whether building, flying or maintaining.
If you have any queries about the scheme please contact us.
Build Process
The summary new aircraft build process is-
- Operator registers the aircraft project with the LMA
- LMA inspector inspects the aircraft through the design & build process
- LMA issues a Permit to Test Fly
- Pilot(s) carry out test flights in the presence of an LMA Flight Test Witness
- LMA issues the aircraft operator with the application supporting documents
- Operator applies to the CAA for a full authorisation
An operator can apply for multiple aircraft on one authorisation, but the pilot(s) must all be approved to fly every aircraft on the authorisation.
Annual Renewals
Authorisations are specific to the operator and pilot(s), are issued for one year and need to be renewed annually.
The summary renewal process is-
- Operator makes annual declaration to the LMA
- LMA issues the aircraft operator with the renewal application supporting documents
- Operator applies to the CAA for a full authorisation
Buying & Selling
If an aircraft changes ownership, the LMA must be informed as soon as reasonably possible and a new authorisation is needed.
The summary ownership change process is-
- Operator informs the LMA of the ownership change
- LMA inspector inspects any modifications to the aircraft
- LMA issues a Permit to Test Fly
- Pilot(s) carry out test flights in the presence of an LMA Flight Test Witness
- LMA issues the aircraft operator with the application supporting documents
- Operator applies to the CAA for a full authorisation
Adding New Pilots
New pilots can be added to an aircraft authorisation at any time.
The summary additional pilot process is-
- Pilot(s) carry out test flights in the presence of an LMA Flight Test Witness
- LMA issues the aircraft operator with the application supporting documents
- Operator applies to the CAA for a full authorisation with new pilot(s) added
Modifications & Repairs
Major changes or repairs to the aircraft will need to be inspected and test flights carried out.
The summary major modification or repair process is-
- Operator informs the LMA of the planned modification or repair
- LMA inspector inspects the aircraft through the modification / repair process
- Pilot(s) carry out the required number of test flights in the presence of an LMA Flight Test Witness
Test Flight Locations
All test flights including flights to add a new pilot must be made at a location approved by the LMA. The Following Locations are approved for flight testing of over 25kg model aircraft in accordance with section 4.8 (8) of Model Aircraft Article 16 Authorisation UAS13534
NLMFC Baldock
RNAS Culdrose
RNAS Merryfield
Weston Zoyland Airfield
Salisbury MFC
Langar Model Aircraft Club
Binham Model Flying Site
Cheddar Model Flying Site
Deenethorpe Airfield
Abingdon Airfield
Cottesmore Airfield
Keevil Airfield
RAF Barkston Heath
Peonix MFC
Elvington Airfield
LMA North West Model Flying Site
LMA Lighthorne Model Flying Site
Woodbridge
RAF Shawbury
Staffordshire RC Aerodrome
NMAS Longhorsley
Wimborne MAC Cashmoor
Llanbedr Airfield
Winterton MFC
Tibenham Airfield
Upottery Airfield
Barling Airfield
Draycot Farm Aerodrome
Over 25kg Scheme Documents
Overall design requirements download here