Overview

This bill amends the Airports Act 1986 to improve air connectivity between major (hub) and smaller (regional) airports in the UK. It grants the Secretary of State and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) new powers to direct airport operators and consider regional connectivity when making decisions.

Description

The Airports (Amendment) Bill modifies the 1986 Act in several key ways:

• New Powers for the Secretary of State: The Secretary of State gains the power to direct airport operators to take specific actions (or refrain from them) to ensure sufficient national air infrastructure linking hub and regional airports. This could involve directing airlines to increase flight frequency or routes.
• CAA Considerations: The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) must now consider the need for adequate services between hub and regional airports when carrying out its functions.
• CAA Condition Imposition: The CAA is given the power to impose conditions on airport operators to guarantee sufficient national air infrastructure between hub and regional airports when granting licenses or approvals.
• Definition of "Hub Airport": The bill defines a "hub airport" as one used as a transfer point for passengers connecting flights.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The cost will depend on the actions taken by the Secretary of State and the CAA under the new powers. There may be increased administrative costs for government departments and the CAA, but any potential financial support to airports or airlines isn't detailed in this legislation.

Groups Affected

• Airport Operators: They will be subject to potential directions from the Secretary of State and conditions imposed by the CAA, potentially impacting their operational strategies and profitability.
• Airlines: Airlines may face requirements to increase services to regional airports, influencing flight schedules and potentially operational costs.
• Passengers: The bill aims to improve air connectivity, potentially offering more convenient and affordable travel options between regional and major airports.
• The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): The CAA will have increased responsibilities in regulating and overseeing the implementation of the new provisions.
• Secretary of State: The Secretary of State takes on more direct responsibility for managing air connectivity between airports.

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