The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Firth of Forth) Regulations 2026

The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Firth of Forth) Regulations 2026 and UK health and safety law: what this change means for business compliance

What has changed in UK health and safety law

These Regulations define a restricted airspace around the Firth of Forth and restrict most flight operations within that area unless authorised or exempted under the order. The change is intended to manage airborne risk and protect people on the ground and in the air. It applies to a range of aerial activities including drone flights, helicopter operations and aerial surveys conducted within or near the restricted zone.

Why this matters for UK health and safety law and regulatory compliance

The new restrictions intersect with workplace risk for organisations that rely on aerial activities. They expand the regulatory expectations for airspace awareness, flight planning and supervision of operations to help prevent incidents and safeguard workers and the public.

Who is affected

Drone operators, aerial surveyors, construction and infrastructure firms, film and media producers, utilities and emergency services that plan or carry out flight activities within or near the Firth of Forth airspace.

Key duties for employers

Identify and document all affected operations and ensure airspace awareness is embedded in planning. Implement procedures to obtain authorisations or exemptions as required and ensure flight plans are approved where needed. Ensure staff and contractors are trained to recognise restricted airspace and follow approved procedures. Maintain records of authorisations and risk assessments. Review supplier and contractor arrangements to enforce compliance. Align your management system with the new requirements, for example ISO 45001 occupational health and safety management.

Steps to achieve compliance

1. Identify all aerial operations including drone flights, manned aircraft activities, surveying and filming that may occur within or near the restricted area
2. Review existing health and safety risk assessments to reflect the airspace restrictions
3. Update flight operation procedures and obtain authorisation, exemptions or flight plans as required
4. Provide training and briefings to staff and contractors on airspace awareness and regulatory requirements
5. Verify contractor and supplier compliance with the restrictions and update procurement controls
6. Integrate the new requirements into your health and safety management system, for example via ISO 45001

Enforcement and governance

Enforcement action may be taken against organisations that fail to comply with the airspace restrictions. Maintaining clear documentation of risk assessments, authorisations and flight plans supports enforcement outcomes and demonstrates due diligence.

Practical considerations for risk management

Work with a competent person to review airspace related risks and controls. When appropriate, access Competent Person support to ensure competent advice. For systematic risk control and legal compliance alignment, consider ISO 45001 occupational health and safety management and health and safety risk assessments to identify hazards and implement controls.

Wrap-up

The new Firth of Forth airspace restrictions require immediate attention to aerial operations and safety governance. Proactive planning and timely compliance will help protect workers and minimise disruption to essential activities.