Comparison of selected features of three UK recreational drone membership packages
Below is our comparison of selected publicly advertised features of three UK recreational drone membership packages that include public liability cover: FPV UK, GADC, and BMFA. The comparison is intended to help readers identify some of the key differences between the packages.
|
FPV UK |
GADC |
BMFA |
| Public Liability Insurance |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| International Cover |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| Authorised and regulated by the CAA |
Y |
N |
Y |
| Article 16 Operational Authorisation |
Y |
N |
Y |
| CAA Operator ID Registration and Renewal |
Y |
N |
Y |
| CAA Flyer ID Registration and Renewal |
Y |
N |
Y |
| Airspace / NOTAM / Hazard map |
Y |
Y |
N |
| Achievement Scheme / Network of examiners |
Y |
N |
Y |
| Community forum |
Y |
Y |
N |
| Price per annum |
£24.99 |
£25 |
£51 |
Comparison based on publicly available information checked on 18 April 2026. Selected features only. Readers should check each provider’s current website, policy wording, terms, exclusions and regulatory services before purchase.
Why many pilots choose FPV UK
FPV UK combines public liability cover with a wider package of member benefits, including CAA-related services, operational flexibility under Article 16, community access and additional member tools. For many recreational pilots, that combination offers strong overall value at £24.99 per year.
Curious about the extensive perks that come with an FPV UK membership? Visit our website (https://fpvuk.org/membership-benefits/) for a detailed list of benefits. The following are some of the benefits included with FPV UK membership:
- Comprehensive Public Liability Insurance. If you make a mistake (legally speaking – if you’re negligent) and accidentally fly your drone into someone or someone’s property, this cover will indemnify you.
- Comprehensive Products Liability Insurance. If your drone or model aircraft, or any part of your system (e.g. your battery or controller) malfunctions in some way and someone is injured, or someone’s property is damaged, this cover indemnifies you.
- International Cover. FPV UK membership includes cover in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, all of the 27 countries of the European Union (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden), Norway, and Switzerland. (Non-UK residents are covered in the UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man).
- CAA Article 16 Operational Authorisation. Our operational authorisation allows you to fly with fewer restrictions and greater flexibility.
- Exceptional Support. If you have questions about regulations, your CAA Operator ID and Flyer ID, risk assessments, or anything else, our dedicated support email is always available and quickly responds.
- Influential Lobbying Efforts. We ensure your drone interests are represented through our continuous advocacy and lobbying with key entities. These include the CAA, DfT, House of Lords, Ofcom, and National Police Chiefs Council.
- Exclusive Training Discounts. Expand your knowledge and skills with discounts on various drone-related training courses, empowering you to become a better pilot.
- Thriving Community. Be a part of our vibrant community, where you can engage with fellow enthusiasts through our community forum, dronehub.co.uk
- Access to Mentors and Examiners. Tap into our national network of experienced mentors and examiners. They are ready to guide and assist you on your FPV journey.
- Achievement Scheme. Embark on a fulfilling progression with our achievement scheme. This scheme allows you to recognise and celebrate your milestones.
- Streamlined Registration. We take care of the hassle for you by automatically registering your Operator ID with the CAA and managing your Flyer ID.
- Customised Testing. Enjoy the convenience of taking our FPV UK multiple-choice test within your account. Because we have tailored this test so that it is totally relevant to our members, it provides a more relevant experience for FPV UK members than a generic test.
- Empowering Features. You will be able to access exclusive features within your FPV UK account, such as My Hangar and My Logbook.
- FPV UK Mentor and Examiner Map. See our national network of mentors and examiners and contact your chosen mentor or examiner for your CofC Practical practice and test.
- TheDroneMap.com Our fully-featured airspace, NOTAM and hazard map.
FPV UK membership is only £24.99 per year.
Join FPV UK today and elevate your drone flying experience to new heights (pun intended!). We look forward to welcoming you into our community of passionate drone enthusiasts!