Overview

This bill amends the Airports Act 1986 to give the Secretary of State powers to direct airport operators to improve air connectivity between hub and regional airports, ensuring sufficient national air infrastructure. This includes adding definitions and considerations for hub airports and national air infrastructure into existing legislation.

Description

The Airports (Amendment) Bill amends the 1986 Airports Act to enhance the UK's national air infrastructure. Key changes include:

• New powers for the Secretary of State: The Secretary of State gains the power to direct airport operators to take specific actions to improve connections between hub and regional airports. This can involve mandates or prohibitions.
• Definition of "hub airport": The bill defines a "hub airport" as one used for passenger transfers between flights, clarifying the scope of the new powers.
• Amendments to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): The CAA's considerations are expanded to include ensuring adequate services between hub and regional airports when making decisions. The CAA's power to impose conditions is also broadened to include ensuring sufficient national air infrastructure between these airports.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The costs will likely arise from the implementation of directives issued by the Secretary of State and potential support for projects aimed at improving air connectivity. Any associated costs are not detailed within the provided bill text.

Groups Affected

• Airport operators: They will be directly affected by potential directives from the Secretary of State, potentially requiring them to make changes to their operations.
• Airlines: Changes to flight routes and connections could impact airlines' schedules and operational efficiency.
• Passengers: Improved air connectivity could lead to more travel options and potentially lower fares, but it might also mean changes to travel plans due to airport operational changes.
• Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): Their decision-making process is altered, requiring consideration of connectivity between hub and regional airports.
• Regional Airports: These airports could potentially benefit from increased passenger numbers and improved flight connections.

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