Overview

This bill aims to improve air traffic management in the UK, modernize the licensing of air traffic services, and grant new police powers to address issues related to unmanned aircraft (drones).

Description

The bill is divided into four parts. Part 1 deals with airspace change proposals, giving the Secretary of State (or delegated to the Civil Aviation Authority - CAA) powers to direct individuals and organizations involved in air navigation (air navigation service providers and airport operators) to cooperate on airspace changes, with appeals available through the Competition Appeal Tribunal. Part 2 revises the licensing regime for air traffic services under the Transport Act 2000, introducing a new procedure for modifying licenses and establishing penalties for non-compliance, with appeals available through the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). Part 3 grants police powers concerning unmanned aircraft, enabling them to ground drones suspected of illegal activity, stop and search, and access premises via warrant. Fixed penalties are introduced for drone-related offences. Part 4 is a general section which covers regulations, the bill's extension across the UK, and commencement dates.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify changes to government spending. However, the implementation of new regulatory processes and enforcement mechanisms may lead to increased costs for the government, specifically within the Department for Transport and the CAA, although exact figures aren't provided.

Groups Affected

• Air Navigation Service Providers: Subject to directions regarding airspace changes and new licensing regulations; potential penalties for non-compliance.
• Airport Operators: Subject to directions regarding airspace changes; potential penalties for non-compliance.
• Drone Operators: Subject to new police powers, potential penalties for violating regulations, and fixed penalty notices.
• Police Forces: Granted new powers to deal with unmanned aircraft.
• Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): Takes on a more significant role in enforcement and licensing; increased workload.
• Competition Appeal Tribunal: Will handle appeals related to airspace change directions.
• Competition and Markets Authority (CMA): Will handle appeals relating to license modifications.

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