Overview

This bill amends the Airports Act 1986 to give the Secretary of State powers to direct airport operators to improve air links between hub and regional airports. It aims to ensure sufficient national air infrastructure by considering the need for adequate services between these airport types when making decisions.

Description

The bill introduces three key amendments to the Airports Act 1986:

• New Section 30A: Grants the Secretary of State the power to direct airport operators to take specific actions deemed necessary to improve air infrastructure between hub and regional airports. This includes requiring or preventing specific actions by operators.
• Amendment to Section 34: Adds "the need to ensure adequate services between hub and regional airports" as a factor the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) must consider when making decisions.
• Amendment to Section 82: Defines "hub airport" as an airport used as a transfer point for passengers between flights on a single journey.

The Act extends to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and comes into force on the day it is passed.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify any changes to government spending. The costs associated with implementing the new regulations are not detailed in the provided bill text.

Groups Affected

• Airport Operators: Will be directly affected by the potential for new directives from the Secretary of State, potentially impacting their operational plans and investment decisions.
• Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): Will need to incorporate the new consideration into their decision-making processes.
• Passengers: Could benefit from improved air links between hub and regional airports, leading to potentially more convenient travel options.
• Regional Airports: May see increased connectivity and passenger numbers.

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