CAA launches consultation on UK aviation information-sharing system

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is inviting industry stakeholders to help shape the future of aviation information sharing in the UK. The consultation marks the first formal step towards implementing a national System Wide Information Management (SWIM) framework.

The proposed framework is intended to support the secure and interoperable exchange of aviation information as the sector becomes increasingly data-driven..

A new information management system would provide the standards, infrastructure and governance needed to enable the secure and interoperable exchange of aviation information. In a similar way to devices like headphones and smartphones being Bluetooth-compatible, a new information management system will create a standard of compatibility for aircraft in sharing aviation information.

Why sharing reliable operational information is so important

As aviation gets more complex, with crewed and uncrewed aircraft operating in the same airspace, it is important that reliable operational information can be shared with different users. To support this change, aviation information needs to be accurate, timely, appropriately assured and understood consistently by those who use it.

The CAA is seeking honest and constructive feedback on the proposed direction of travel and wish to hear from stakeholders on the components needed and the SWIM guidance they are looking for to support the transition to a fully digital, information-centric aviation ecosystem. 

Support for more informed decision-making, interoperability and aviation innovation

This consultation is the first formal opportunity for industry to help the regulator shape the implementation of a new information management system in the UK. By enabling organisations to publish, discover, access and use information more effectively, a System Wide Information Management (SWIM) can support more informed decision-making, greater interoperability and future aviation innovation. 

The regulator will continue to develop and refine the Implementation Framework through consultation, stakeholder engagement and implementation experience, with the aim of publishing it in 2028. In addition, the CAA will publish the SWIM Technical Architecture and Operational Scenarios for crewed users in 2027.  

The consultation launched on 6th October 2026 and is open until 6th January 2027. Responses will help shape future airspace policy as part of the UK’s wider Airspace Modernisation Strategy.

Access to the consultation is available here.