A1 marking on your drone

What A1 marking means

The A1 subcategory allows flying over people with C1-class aircraft (MTOM up to 900 g). The operator must mark their registration number on the drone — this is the operator ID, not an 'A1 label' as such.

Confusion about 'A1 marking' often arises from mixing up the subcategory number (A1) with the physical aircraft marking. What is actually marked is the operator registration ID, not the subcategory.

Marking rules in practice

The operator registration number must be visibly marked on the aircraft — typically with a durable label or engraving on the body. No strict standard governs size or position, but it must be legible and weather-resistant.

C1 and above aircraft must additionally carry the manufacturer's class marking (C1, C2 etc.) — this reflects technical compliance, not the pilot's subcategory.

A1 and C-class relationship

A1 subcategory: permitted with C0 (no camera) and C1 aircraft. Flying over people is allowed with C1 — but not over crowds. A1/A3 competency is required for aircraft ≥250 g and for those with cameras.

A C0 with a camera or a C1 aircraft requires operator registration and A1/A3 competency. For more detail on C classes, see /blog/c0-c1-c2-drone-classes-explained.

Practical steps

Once you receive your operator registration number from utm.ans.lt, mark it on all aircraft subject to registration. Use durable labels — weather and time can degrade stickers.

If you operate multiple aircraft, each must bear the same operator ID, but the physical marking must appear on every aircraft individually. One ID — many aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fly over people in the A1 subcategory?

Yes, with a C1-class aircraft — but not over crowds. A1 allows incidental overflight of isolated people with C1, while flying over assemblies of people is prohibited.

What does a C1 class marking on a drone signify?

A C1 marking means the manufacturer has certified the aircraft meets C1 class technical requirements. This enables its use in A1 subcategory operations, including overflight of individual uninvolved persons.