CAA annual progress report for 2024

Progress made against the Airspace Modernisation Strategy during 2024.

This government is committed to accelerating the airspace modernisation programme, as a key enabler to unlocking economic growth through expanding the aviation sector.

The impacts of our outdated airspace are felt by both the sector and passengers and it’s vital we deliver modernisation of UK airspace to reduce flight times, improve reliability of services and deliver on our climate and environmental obligations. Modernisation doesn’t stop at conventional passenger aircraft but will also enable the integration of emerging aviation technologies, futureproofing our skies for the next generation of aircraft and making meaningful contributions towards our net zero targets.

Since the start of this government, we have seen considerable progress on a number of elements within the Airspace Modernisation Strategy (AMS). Some of our most significant developments include:

The announcement of the formation of the UK Airspace Design Service (UKADS), which will deliver holistic and modernised airspace design for the complex London Terminal Airspace by taking forward airports’ airspace change proposals (ACPs) in a coordinated manner.

The successful conclusion of the consultation on the scope and funding model for the UKADS. This will help deliver a step change in how airspace change is delivered and work is underway to establish the UKADS so it can be operational this year.

The intent to create a new UK Airspace Design Support Fund (UKADSF) to cover relevant costs of the sponsors of eligible UK airport ACPs that are outside the scope of UKADS.

Progress being made by the 20 airports advancing their ACPs as part of the Terminal Airspace Redesign element, with almost all of the London airports now progressing on to Stage 3 of the process, including Heathrow and Gatwick.