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
Leonardo animated rectangle

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
Babcock LB Babcock LB
Raytheon engineer recognised for inspiring the next generation

Aerospace Events

Raytheon engineer recognised for inspiring the next generation

9 December 2025

Flying Officer Ali Bachar, an engineer at Harlow-based Raytheon UK, has been honoured for his outstanding commitment to STEM education and youth engagement at the Regional Commandant Awards held at RAF Northolt.

Airbus completes acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems

Aerospace

Airbus completes acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems' sites

8 December 2025

Airbus has closed the transaction with Spirit AeroSystems for the acquisition of industrial assets dedicated to its commercial aircraft programmes, including those providing wing components for the A320 and A350 in Prestwick, Scotland and for A220 wings and A220 mid-fuselage production in Belfast.

Scottish Airspace Modernisation consultation reaches halfway point

Aerospace

Scottish Airspace Modernisation consultation reaches halfway point

8 December 2025

The Scottish Airspace Modernisation consultation, which launched on 20th October, has reached its midpoint, with the Coordinated Airspace Change Proposals (ACPs) - led jointly by NATS, Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow Airport - giving communities, political representatives and other stakeholders the opportunity to share their views.

GKN Aerospace to expand additive manufacturing capabilities in Norway

Aerospace

GKN Aerospace to expand additive manufacturing capabilities in Norway

8 December 2025

GKN Aerospace Norway and Norwegian Catapult Manufacturing Technology in Kongsberg (Kongsberg Technology Cluster) have signed a strategic agreement to invest in and expand advanced additive manufacturing capabilities at GKN Aerospace’s engines facility in Kongsberg.

Advertisement
ODU RT
ADS reports seven year high for aircraft deliveries

Aerospace

ADS reports seven year high for aircraft deliveries

5 December 2025

According to ADS, commercial aircraft manufacturers delivered 132 aircraft in October 2025 - increasing by two thirds (67%) compared to October 2024 - marking the highest number of aircraft deliveries for the month of October since 2018.

Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander approved by TCAA

Aerospace

Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander approved by TCAA

2 December 2025

UK aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman has received Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) type certification for the BN2T-4S Islander, the Rolls-Royce Model 250–powered turboprop variant of the company’s iconic utility aircraft.

Advertisement
Leonardo animated rectangle