The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has launched an eight-week consultation on proposed updates to its charging structure, with feedback closing on 15 January 2025. The aim is to enhance safety, foster innovation, and support sustainability within the aerospace sector.
The consultation document outlines the proposed charges, which are aligned with the CAA’s core objectives of public safety and advancements in aerospace. The fees are designed to address increasing consumer expectations for greater capacity and reliability in air travel, alongside the sector’s evolving needs, such as technological advancements, a stronger focus on decarbonisation, and the efficient use of UK airspace.
The proposed charge levels reflect the CAA’s value-for-money approach and incorporate recommendations from the 2023 government-sponsored review of arm’s length bodies. The consultation also emphasizes the regulator’s strategic objectives, including enhancing the safety and sustainability of the aviation sector. Tracey Martin, Chief Financial & Operations Officer at the CAA, highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between regulatory obligations and investing in innovation. This ensures the aviation sector can grow and meet the needs of all regulatory customers.
Under the proposed changes, the CAA’s statutory charges are projected to account for an estimated 0.4% of the UK aerospace turnover, equivalent to 45p per UK passenger journey in the next year. The changes are designed to support the CAA’s key initiatives, including building a stronger environmental sustainability team, improving consumer protection standards, and facilitating the integration of new technologies through the Future of Flight programme and artificial intelligence strategy.
The consultation seeks industry feedback, and the CAA will publish a response document reflecting the input received once the consultation period ends.