New laws set to modernise aviation and better protect passengers

The Civil Aviation Bill will support airspace modernisation and enhance safety standards for passengers across the UK.

Air passengers will get stronger protection of rights around cancellations, delays and passenger support and will enjoy faster travel, thanks to new government laws.

The Civil Aviation Bill, now going through second reading and announced in the King’s Speech in May, will support the modernisation of UK airspace, enhance safety standards and give the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) new enforcement powers, including to fine the minority of airlines and airports that fail to deliver for passengers.

Among the many changes, it means airlines and airports must properly compensate cancelled flights, assist disabled people to travel freely and support flyers through disruption – including with food and accommodation – or face stronger enforcement from the CAA.

While UK aviation has a world-leading reputation, these transformative new laws go further by supporting the redesign of airspace rules to slash delays and make flights faster for passengers by reducing planes queuing to land.

Our new laws will modernise UK aviation, supporting the redesign of our airspace for faster, more efficient flights, while enhancing aviation safety standards and delivering greater passenger protections.

We’re proud of the strong, reliable experience our sector delivers day-in day-out for passengers and we are clear that no one should be let down when they travel.