Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace

CAA launches class D airspace consultation

With the requirements for pilots flying visual flight rules (VFR) in class D airspace set to change later this year, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has today launched a consultation aimed at those pilots and ATC units likely to be affected by the change.

Above: CAA offices Gatwick.
Copyright CAA

In the UK pilots have been able to use an exemption to the Standardised European Rules of the Air (SERA) allowing certain aircraft operating below 3,000 feet to fly ‘clear of cloud’ when in class D airspace. That exemption to the ‘visual metrological conditions (VMC) minima’ will expire in September 2019.

Advertisement
ODU RT

The CAA launched consultation will provide more detail and explore options for the facilitation of non-instrument flight rule (IFR) operations in class D airspace after September. These options explore potential changes to the separation requirements currently applied to aircraft flying under a Special VFR (SVFR) clearance from air traffic control. 

Pilots and air traffic control units are strongly encouraged to participate in the consultation, which will be open until the end of May 2019.  

Advertisement
ODU RT

The CAA consultation can be accessed here .

 

Advertisement
Gulfstream banner
Heathrow unveils World of Opportunity winners

Aerospace

Heathrow unveils World of Opportunity winners

27 April 2026

Heathrow has revealed the 12 winners of its annual World of Opportunity (WOO) competition, showcasing the breadth of innovation and ambition that underpins Britain’s export economy.

Andy Armstrong appointed MD of FANUC UK and Ireland

Aerospace

Andy Armstrong appointed MD of FANUC UK and Ireland

27 April 2026

Factory automation specialist FANUC has named Andy Armstrong as the new Managing Director of FANUC UK and FANUC Ireland, effective immediately.

Britten-Norman advances airborne BN2T-4S 5G integration

Aerospace

Britten-Norman advances airborne BN2T-4S 5G integration

27 April 2026

Britten-Norman has delivered a key milestone in its collaboration with World Mobile Stratospheric, with the BN2T-4S Islander aircraft supporting the programme now prepared for the next phase of system integration.

Bristol Airport launches 2026 innovation fund

Aerospace

Bristol Airport launches 2026 innovation fund

27 April 2026

Bristol Airport has announced the next phase of funding of the Aviation Carbon Transition (ACT) Programme, a pioneering initiative designed to fast-track decarbonisation projects targeting Scope 3 emissions from flight and transport.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Airbus delivers first A321XLR for Air Canada

Aerospace

Airbus delivers first A321XLR for Air Canada

24 April 2026

The first of 30 Airbus A321XLRs for Canada’s flag carrier Air Canada, has been delivered.

UKEF partners with Finance for Forces to support veteran-led exporters

Aerospace Defence Security Space

UKEF partners with Finance for Forces to support veteran-led exporters

24 April 2026

UK Export Finance (UKEF) – the government’s export credit agency – has announced a new partnership with Finance for Forces to help more veteran-led businesses access the finance they need to grow internationally.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner