CAA outlines scope of Heathrow Regulatory Framework review
Above: CAA's Gatwick offices.
Copyright CAA
The review will explore how best to ensure the efficient and timely delivery of expansion plans while protecting the interests of consumers.
In a statement last Friday (18th July), the regulator set out its scope for how it will assess the current regulatory model, consider credible alternatives and different regulatory models used for other UK and international infrastructure projects, as well as evaluate the technical feasibility and robustness of plans for capacity expansion.
In March, the Civil Aviation Authority sent a letter to industry, which set out our intention to review the framework for economic regulation for capacity expansion at Heathrow, alongside its work on the H8 price control review.
Selina Chadha, Director of Consumers and Markets at the Civil Aviation Authority said: “Expanding capacity at Heathrow airport would be one of the largest capital expenditure programmes in the UK. We are committed to reviewing the regulatory framework now so that it best supports the efficient delivery of sustainable expansion and delivers value for consumers.
“It is right that we review our framework to help us determine the most effective regulatory approach to support this major national infrastructure project.”
As a next step, the regulator plans to publish a working paper for consultation in autumn 2025, outlining potential regulatory models and evaluation criteria. The review will align with the UK Government’s timetable for updating the Airports National Policy Statement.
