New Drone & Crane Rules Now in Effect – What You Need to Know

On 1 October 2025, updated rules for operating drones or erecting cranes near Glasgow Prestwick Airport came into effect. If you’re planning to fly a drone or put up a crane in the area, here’s what has changed and what you need to know to stay safe.

Applications for drone flights (within 5km) or crane operations (within 6km) must now be submitted through Air Portal, an online platform that manages requests and provides a clearer process for operators. Once registered, this will be your central hub for submitting applications.

Drones
All drone applications within the airport’s Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) must now go through Air Portal. Requests must be submitted at least three days in advance and must include a Police Scotland reference number. Recreational flights are free, while commercial flights cost £25 + VAT. If your drone will fly higher than 400 feet, you’ll also need separate approval from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Cranes
Any crane within 6 km of the airport now requires permission if it will stand higher than ten metres or taller than surrounding buildings or trees. Permits cost £150 + VAT for operations lasting up to four weeks, or £250 + VAT for shorter projects. Crane requests outside the 6km zone should be referred to the CAA’s Airspace Co-ordination and Obstacle Management Service (ACOMS) who can be contacted on email [email protected].

Looking ahead
From 1 January 2026, further changes will be introduced for drone operators. Drones over 100 grams will require a Flyer ID, and Remote ID technology will become compulsory.

The new rules are now live, so please make sure you’re up to date before planning any drone flights or crane operations near Glasgow Prestwick Airport.

For more information please visit: Drone and Crane Use