The UK Civil Aviation Authority has updated GA stakeholders on its plans and progress in delivering a better deal for the UK’s general aviation sector.

The announcement follows publication of recent responses from the CAA and the Government to the General Aviation Red Tape Challenge.

The initial work is focused on setting up the new General Aviation Unit within the CAA. The organisation says that this will be dedicated to more effective and proportionate regulation that supports and encourages the general aviation sector within the UK. The unit will be operational by April 2014. It will oversee the risk-based and proportionate regulation of non-complex EASA and national Annex II aircraft, their non-commercial operation and maintenance, plus pilot training organisations and small non-public transport airfields.

The CAA’s response to the General Aviation Red Tape Challenge lists a number of areas identified for potential deregulation and delegation. But it is looking for more suggestions, these can be sent via email to redtaperesponse@caa.co.uk. One of the original examples of this work was the consultation open de-regulating single-seat microlights, which has just closed. The CAA is currently studying the responses and a decision is due in the New Year.

The main issues to have been raised by the community have included: extending the number of aircraft allowed on permit to fly, the regulation of aerodromes (e.g. allowing pilot-controlled runway lighting) and improving licensing rules and regulations.

CAA GA Programme Manager Mike Barnard said: “This is an exciting time for the UK general aviation community. Freeing the sector from unnecessary regulation will be a key step in recreating a dynamic, thriving general aviation sector for the UK, and one that will be of benefit to the UK economy.”

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