Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Aerospace
  • /
  • UK and US sign aviation agreement to protect air travel links

Aerospace

UK and US sign aviation agreement to protect air travel links

The Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, has today signed a new bilateral Air Services Agreement safeguarding the future of air travel between the UK and US past the end of the Brexit transition period.

Above: Grant Shapps signs the UK-USA Air Service Agreement at No. 10 Downing Street today.
Courtesy Department for Transport

The Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, signed on behalf of the US, along with the Transportation Secretary, Elaine Chao.
 
The arrangement will replace the current EU agreement, preserving the continuation of travel, protecting the economy and ensuring the UK remains one of the world’s leading aviation hubs for both travellers and businesses.   

Advertisement
ODU RT

 
Tens of millions of passengers a year use these vital transatlantic routes, contributing to a trading relationship with the US worth over £230 billion. Today’s announcement will help ensure that the UK remains open for business with major economies around the world, by maintaining this critical global link.  
 
Advertisement
ODU RT

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “The Air Services Agreement will allow us to continue to travel and trade with one of our closest friends and allies, working together to mutually boost our economies either side of the Atlantic. This is just one of many steps we’re taking as we move towards a bright new future at the end of the transition period.”
 
The Agreement will enter into full legal force after completion of both sides’ procedures for an international agreement.

 

Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner
Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 EP achieves efficiency milestone

Aerospace

Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 EP achieves efficiency milestone

4 June 2026

Rolls-Royce has reached a major milestone for its Trent XWB-84 Enhanced Performance (EP) engine, which has delivered almost double the baseline of anticipated fuel savings during its first year in service.

Birmingham Airport awarded Level 4 Airport Carbon Accreditation

Aerospace

Birmingham Airport awarded Level 4 Airport Carbon Accreditation

4 June 2026

Birmingham Airport (BHX) has been awarded Level 4 Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) by Airports Council International (ACI), marking a significant milestone in its journey towards net zero. This achievement follows three consecutive years of maintaining Level 3 status.

Farnborough International Airshow reveals first wave of 2026 flying display

Aerospace Defence Events

Farnborough International Airshow reveals first wave of 2026 flying display

4 June 2026

Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) has announced the first of many aircraft and teams taking part in its 2026 flying display, which is set to be its largest and most diverse in decades.

Luton Airport unveils logistics hub

Aerospace

Luton Airport unveils logistics hub

4 June 2026

London Luton Airport (LLA) has unveiled a new consolidation centre that is housed in one of three previously empty hangars, formerly owned by Monarch Airlines and acquired by LLA in February 2024, which will create up to 30 new jobs for local people.

Advertisement
ODU RT
ADS reveals surge in April aircraft orders

Aerospace

ADS reveals surge in April aircraft orders

3 June 2026

According to the latest data from ADS - the trade association for the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space industries - commercial aircraft orders surged in April 2026, reaching their highest level for this month, in a decade.

NATS, DroneCloud and Network Rail complete CNI drone trial

Aerospace Security

NATS, DroneCloud and Network Rail complete CNI drone trial

3 June 2026

NATS, DroneCloud and Network Rail have completed a major project exploring how drones could be safely used at scale around Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), including for rail inspections and incident response.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner