The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has launched a new consultation on reforms to the UK’s airspace change process.
Outlining a number of proposals to streamline and improve timelines related to the proposal of airspace development and decisions, the regulator has now begun seeking views from stakeholders on the proposed actions.
The CAA has stated that the current process, which was first introduced in 2018 and updated in 2023, requires further reform in order to reflect what remains effective or is creating disproportionate work, as well as take into account the creation of the UK Airspace Design Service (UKADS).
The newly proposed framework will allow the UKADS, as well as new users, to deliver modernised design in collaboration with stakeholders.
The CAA is also working with the Department for Transport in order to ensure reforms align with its own commitment to both proportionate and effective regulation.
Rob Bishton, Chief Executive of the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said:Airspace is one of the UK’s most important pieces of national infrastructure. If we want our aviation system to grow in line with planning system decisions, be resilient, compete internationally, and adapt to new technologies, the way we manage and modernise that airspace must also evolve.
This consultation sets out reforms that will make the system simpler and more proportionate, while retaining the key evidence and transparent approach. It is a critical step towards delivering the airspace modernisation the UK needs.
The consultation is set to remain open for 12 weeks and close on 18 December 2025, with full details and information on responses available on the Civil Aviation Authority’s Citizen Space platform.
