UK Statutory Instrument
2016
United Kingdom
Air Navigation Order 2016
At a glance
Enforced by
What's here
185 compliance obligations, 6 practical guides across 2 topics
Penalty landscape
19 of 185 obligations carry an unlimited fine. 10 carry different penalties and 156 have no criminal penalty — flagged in the list below.
Who this Act binds
Business-side actors with duties under this Act, ranked by how often they appear.
- Any Person 95
- Operator 60
- Licence Holder 6
- Contractor 5
- Applicant 1
- Employee 1
- Employer 1
- Director or Officer 1
- Occupier 1
- Self-Employed Person 1
- Landlord 1
Plus 12 non-business duties on Crown ministers, regulators, local authorities or tribunals — shown collapsed under each section below.
Relevant guidance
Practical guides for businesses affected by this Act, ordered by how closely they engage with it.
Supporting — topic alignment
6 guidesOther Acts binding the same actors
For each actor bound by this Act, the other UK Acts that bind them most often. Useful for understanding the full compliance landscape facing each role.
Any Person also bound by 2338 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Human Medicines Regulations 2012 2012 169 duties
- Merchant Shipping Act 1995 1995 144 duties
- Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 2016 101 duties
- Road Traffic Act 1988 1988 95 duties
- Communications Act 2003 2003 89 duties
Operators also bound by 730 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Regulation (EU) No 965/2012 (Air Operations) 2012 138 duties
- Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/2066 of 19 December 2018 on the monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions pursuant to Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and amending Commission Regulation (EU) No 601/2012 (Text with EEA relevance) 2018 121 duties
- Commission Regulation (EU) No 601/2012 of 21 June 2012 on the monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions pursuant to Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (Text with EEA relevance) (repealed) 2012 112 duties
- Space Industry Regulations 2021 2021 75 duties
- Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on transmissible animal diseases and amending and repealing certain acts in the area of animal health (‘Animal Health Law’) (Text with EEA relevance) 2016 66 duties
Licence Holders also bound by 221 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Petroleum (Current Model Clauses) Order 1999 1999 317 duties
- The Petroleum Licensing (Exploration and Production) (Seaward and Landward Areas) Regulations 2004 2004 123 duties
- Human Medicines Regulations 2012 2012 76 duties
- Space Industry Regulations 2021 2021 68 duties
- The Petroleum (Production) (Landward Areas) Regulations 1991 1991 65 duties
Contractors also bound by 178 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- The National Health Service (Personal Medical Services Agreements) Regulations 2015 2015 137 duties
- The National Health Service (General Medical Services Contracts) Regulations 2015 2015 134 duties
- Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 2015 114 duties
- The National Health Service (General Medical Services Contracts) (Wales) Regulations 2023 2023 93 duties
- The Health and Personal Social Services (General Medical Services Contracts) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004 2004 87 duties
Applicants also bound by 294 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 2016 46 duties
- Human Medicines Regulations 2012 2012 30 duties
- The Land Registration Rules 2003 2003 25 duties
- Value Added Tax Regulations 1995 1995 18 duties
- Space Industry Regulations 2021 2021 14 duties
Employees also bound by 182 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Employment Rights (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 (current NI employment law) 1996 13 duties
- Regulation (EU) No 965/2012 (Air Operations) 2012 12 duties
- Shared Parental Leave Regulations 2014 2014 10 duties
- The Income Tax (Pay As You Earn) Regulations 2003 2003 10 duties
- Paternity and Adoption Leave Regulations 2002 2002 9 duties
Employers also bound by 694 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- The Income Tax (Pay As You Earn) Regulations 2003 2003 236 duties
- Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 1998 120 duties
- TULRCA 1992 1992 72 duties
- Employment Rights (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 (current NI employment law) 1996 52 duties
- Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003 2003 50 duties
Directors and Officers also bound by 425 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 2016 161 duties
- Companies Act 2006 2006 108 duties
- Insolvency Act 1986 1986 72 duties
- The Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 2008 55 duties
- The Housing Administration (England and Wales) Rules 2018 2018 26 duties
Occupiers also bound by 259 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- The Water Resources (Control of Agricultural Pollution) (Wales) Regulations 2021 2021 39 duties
- Avian Influenza and Influenza of Avian Origin in Mammals (England) (No. 2) Order 2006 2006 34 duties
- The Welfare of Animals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations 1995 1995 34 duties
- Highways Act 1980 1980 23 duties
- Nitrate Pollution Prevention Regulations 2015 2015 18 duties
Self-Employed People also bound by 82 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- General Dental Services Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1993 1993 12 duties
- The National Health Service (General Dental Services) (Scotland) Regulations 2010 2010 7 duties
- The General Chiropractic Council (Indemnity Arrangements) Rules Order of Council 2015 2015 5 duties
- Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1993 1993 5 duties
- The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992 1992 4 duties
Landlords also bound by 216 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 2016 74 duties
- Housing Act 1985 1985 53 duties
- Housing Act 1996 1996 30 duties
- The Service Charges (Consultation Requirements) (England) Regulations 2003 2003 27 duties
- The Service Charges (Consultation Requirements) (Wales) Regulations 2004 2004 26 duties
What this Act requires
Sections that create concrete duties on businesses or carry penalties. Procedural and definitional sections are folded into the “Browse other sections” expander at the bottom of each group. Click any section title to read the source text on legislation.gov.uk.
Part 1 — Interpretation and categorisation
Browse 15 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Meaning of “in flight”
Meaning of “operator”
Meaning of “aerodrome traffic zone”
Meaning of “public transport”
Meaning of “commercial operation”
Public transport – special rule for associations of persons
Public transport and commercial operations – exceptions – charity flights
Public transport and commercial operations – exceptions – cost sharing
Public transport – exceptions – introductory flights
Public transport and commercial operations – exceptions – glider towing
Interpretation
Application of Chapter
Public transport – special rule for groups of companies
Public transport and commercial operations – exceptions – flying displays
Public transport and commercial operations – exceptions – parachuting
Part 2 — Application of the Order
Browse 7 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Extra-territorial effect of the Order
Aircraft in transit over certain United Kingdom territorial waters
Application of the Order to British-controlled aircraft registered elsewhere than in the United Kingdom
Application of the Order to the Crown
Application of the Order to visiting forces
Application of the Order to military aircraft
Exceptions from application of provisions of the Order for certain classes of aircraft
Part 3 — Registration and marking
CAA to register aircraft in the United Kingdom
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA must maintain the UK aircraft register and follow registration rules Statutory regulator
Who may register aircraft in the United Kingdom
- Do not use non-UK registered aircraft for commercial air transport Any Person
Application for registration
- Apply to register your aircraft with the CAA Any Person
Changes to the register
- Register changes in aircraft ownership or status with the CAA Landlord
Nationality and registration marks
- Ensure aircraft display correct nationality and registration marks Any Person
Browse 4 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Part 4 — Airworthiness of Aircraft
Issue of airworthiness directives for Part-21 aircraft
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA may issue airworthiness directives and grounded aircraft Statutory regulator
Requirement for a certificate of release to service for Part-21 aircraft
- Obtain a certificate of release to service after aircraft maintenance Any Person
Licensing of maintenance engineers
- Do not work as a maintenance engineer if physically or mentally unfit Any Person
Certificate of airworthiness for State aircraft registered in the United Kingdom
- Maintain airworthiness certification for UK-registered State aircraft Any Person
Issue and renewal of national certificates of airworthiness
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA must issue airworthiness certificates for fit-to-fly UK aircraft Statutory regulator
Issue of national permits to fly
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA must issue or refuse national permits to fly based on airworthiness Statutory regulator
Limitations of national permits to fly
- Comply with limitations and display warning on 'permit to fly' aircraft Any Person
Aircraft weight schedule
- Maintain aircraft weight schedules and determine centre of gravity Operator
Requirement for a certificate of release to service for non-Part-21 aircraft
- Obtain certificate of release to service after aircraft maintenance Any Person
Contents of a certificate of release to service
- Complete a certificate of release to service after aircraft maintenance Any Person
Who may issue a certificate of release to service
- Ensure only authorised persons issue aircraft release to service certificates Any Person
Requirement for and validity of a national airworthiness review certificate
- Hold a valid national airworthiness review certificate for your aircraft Any Person
Other circumstances in which an aircraft must not fly
- Ground aircraft that do not meet airworthiness standards Any Person
Initial issue of national airworthiness review certificate
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA must issue initial airworthiness review certificates Statutory regulator
Subsequent issue of national airworthiness review certificate
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA must issue or approve National Airworthiness Review Certificates Statutory regulator
Aircraft maintenance programme
- Maintain aircraft according to a CAA-compliant maintenance programme Any Person
Commercial air transport aircraft, public transport aircraft and non-military State aircraft
Unlimited fine- Use approved organisations for aircraft management and maintenance Any Person
Extension of a national airworthiness review certificate of an aircraft in a controlled environment
- Extend airworthiness certificates for aircraft in controlled environments Contractor
Extension of a national airworthiness review certificate of other aircraft which are not in a controlled environment
- Extend airworthiness certificates for large or commercial aircraft Contractor
Conduct of an airworthiness review
- Conduct aircraft airworthiness reviews and surveys Any Person
Conduct of an annual review
- Conduct an annual review of aircraft airworthiness Any Person
General provisions concerning airworthiness reviews
- Send airworthiness review certificate copies to CAA within 10 days Any Person
Browse 9 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Certificate of airworthiness to be in force
National certificate of airworthiness ceasing to be in force and issue of airworthiness directives for non-Part-21 aircraft
National permits to fly ceasing to be in force and issue of airworthiness directives for permit aircraft
Circumstances where a certificate of release to service is not required
Certificate of release to service issued by pilot owner
Validity of the national airworthiness review certificate
Extension of a national airworthiness review certificate of certain aircraft which are not in a controlled environment
Approval of continuing airworthiness management organisation
Approval of aeroplane and rotorcraft maintenance organisation
Part 5 — Operations
Flight crew required by aircraft registered elsewhere than in the United Kingdom
Unlimited fine- Ensure non-UK registered aircraft carry the legally required flight crew Any Person
Flight crew required by aircraft registered in the United Kingdom
- Ensure aircraft carry the required number of flight crew Any Person
Obligations of pilot in command
Unlimited fine- Ensure flight safety, aircraft airworthiness, and proper planning Operator
Pilot to remain at controls and be secured in seat
6 months imprisonment- Keep pilot secured and at the controls during flight Operator
Passengers to be seated and properly secured
- Ensure all passengers are seated and secured during flight Operator
Survival equipment
- Ensure aircraft carries necessary survival equipment Operator
Passenger briefings
- Brief passengers on emergency equipment and procedures before or during flights Operator
Demonstration and use of oxygen
- Brief passengers on oxygen use and ensure flight crew use oxygen at altitude Operator
Take-off and landing conditions
- Check weather and runway conditions before take-off or landing Operator
Aerodrome operating minima
Unlimited fine- Adhere to aerodrome operating minima and flight procedures Operator
Equipment of aircraft
- Ensure aircraft are correctly equipped, maintained, and marked Employer
Operation of radio in aircraft
- Use aircraft radio only with a valid licence and qualified operator Any Person
Operation of, and training in operation of, airborne collision avoidance system
- Train crew and follow procedures for airborne collision avoidance systems Operator
Minimum navigation performance
- Use CAA-approved navigation equipment in North Atlantic airspace Any Person
Height keeping performance – aircraft registered in the United Kingdom
- Ensure aircraft meet height keeping standards in restricted airspace Any Person
Height keeping performance – aircraft registered elsewhere than in the United Kingdom
- Ensure non-UK aircraft meet height keeping standards in UK RVSM airspace Any Person
Area navigation and required navigation performance capabilities – aircraft registered in the United Kingdom
Unlimited fine- Use CAA-approved navigation equipment in restricted airspace Any Person
Flying displays
- Obtain CAA permission before organising a flying display Director or Officer
Towing of gliders
- Follow safety requirements for towing gliders Any Person
Towing, picking up and raising of persons and articles
- Follow strict rules for towing or lifting people and items by aircraft Any Person
Dropping of persons and grant of parachuting permissions
- Obtain permission before conducting or allowing parachuting from an aircraft Any Person
Dropping articles for purposes of agriculture etc. and grant of aerial application certificates
- Obtain an aerial application certificate for agricultural dropping Operator
Mooring, tethering, towing, use of cables, etc.
- Safely operate balloons, kites, gliders, and airships Any Person
Release of small balloons
- Get permission or notify the CAA before releasing large groups of balloons Any Person
Carriage of weapons and of munitions of war – requirement for permission and for pilot in command to be informed
- Obtain permission and notify pilot before carrying weapons or ammunitions Operator
Prohibition on carrying on board sporting weapons or munitions of war
Unlimited fine- Strictly follow rules for carrying sporting weapons or munitions on aircraft Any Person
Requirement for and grant of national air operator's certificate
- Obtain an Air Operator's Certificate for public transport flights Operator
Requirement for a Part-CAT air operator certificate
- Obtain a Part-CAT air operator certificate for commercial flights Any Person
Public transport of passengers – pilot in command to ensure demonstration of lifejackets
- Demonstrate lifejacket use to passengers before take-off Operator
Public transport of passengers – pilot in command to ensure crew, passengers and baggage secure
- Pilot in command must ensure crew, passengers and baggage are secured Operator
Pilots required on public transport flights by flying machines over 5,700kg
- Carry at least two pilots on aircraft over 5,700kg Contractor
Pilots required on public transport flights by aeroplanes of 5,700kg or less
- Carry two pilots on specific small public transport aircraft Any Person
Pilots required on public transport flights by helicopters of 5,700kg or less
- Ensure public transport helicopters under 5,700kg carry two pilots Any Person
Flight navigators or navigational equipment required on public transport flights
- Carry a flight navigator or approved equipment on long-distance flights Any Person
Required cabin crew of aircraft
- Carry the required number of cabin crew on aircraft Operator
Flight data monitoring, accident prevention and flight safety programme
- Establish and maintain a flight safety and accident prevention programme Operator
Public transport – operator's responsibilities in relation to crew
- Designate pilot in command and ensure crew are trained and competent Operator
Public transport – operator's responsibilities in relation to routes and aerodromes
- Verify route safety and aerodrome suitability for public flights Operator
Operations manual
- Maintain and supply an operations manual for UK public transport aircraft Operator
Training manual
- Maintain and submit a training manual for UK public transport aircraft Operator
Wearing of survival suits by crew
- Crew must wear survival suits on UK-registered aircraft when required Employee
Equipment of public transport aircraft
- Equip and mark public transport aircraft according to safety standards Operator
Marking of exits – commercial air transport aeroplanes and public transport aeroplanes and helicopters
- Mark and maintain emergency exits on aircraft Operator
Operator's duty concerning the loading of public transport aircraft
- Ensure public transport aircraft are loaded correctly Operator
Requirement to load in accordance with loading instructions
- Supervise aircraft loading and follow weight instructions Operator
Requirement for a load sheet
- Prepare and sign a load sheet before each flight Any Person
Carriage of baggage
- Secure baggage in passenger compartments on UK-registered passenger flights Operator
Aeroplanes registered in the United Kingdom – public transport operating conditions and performance requirements
- Comply with public transport flight performance and safety requirements Contractor
Helicopters registered in the United Kingdom carrying out Performance Class 3 operations
- Equip Performance Class 3 helicopters for water flights Contractor
Helicopters registered in the United Kingdom carrying out Performance Class 1 operations and Performance Class 2 operations
- Equip helicopters with safety apparatus for over-water flights Any Person
Public transport aircraft registered in the United Kingdom – aerodrome operating minima
- Establish and follow aerodrome operating limits for public transport aircraft Operator
Public transport aircraft registered elsewhere than in the United Kingdom – aerodrome operating minima
Unlimited fine- Set and follow aerodrome safety limits for non-UK registered aircraft Operator
A to A commercial air transport aeroplane operations and public transport flights by aeroplanes at night or in specified meteorological conditions
- Do not fly single-engine foreign aircraft at night or in poor weather Any Person
Police operations manual
- Maintain and distribute a police operations manual Operator
Carriage of equipment
- Ensure aircraft equipment is carried and fit for use before flight Operator
Certain unmanned aircraft: permission for flights that are over or near aerodromes
- Get permission before flying drones near protected aerodromes Operator
Operator responsibilities in relation to communications
- Maintain continuous radio communication during controlled flights Operator
Certain unmanned aircraft: permission for flights that are over or near space sites
- Get permission before flying drones near space sites Operator
Browse 24 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Meaning of “ non-Part-21 aircraft” in this Part
Application of Chapters 2 and 7
Responsibilities and authority of pilot in command
Minimum equipment requirements
Area navigation and required navigation performance capabilities – aircraft registered elsewhere than in the United Kingdom
Dropping of articles and animals
Small unmanned aircraft : requirements
Small unmanned surveillance aircraft
Rockets
Carriage of dangerous goods
Exceptions concerning carriage of weapons and munitions of war
Requirement for an EU-OPS air operator certificate
Offering commercial transport and public transport flights
Public transport of passengers – pilot in command to ensure demonstration of use of oxygen
Functioning of exits – commercial air transport aeroplanes and public transport aeroplanes and helicopters
Loading instructions: exceptions
Helicopters registered in the United Kingdom – public transport operating conditions and performance requirements
Requirement for, and grant of, police air operator's certificate
Certain small unmanned aircraft: competency of remote pilots
Certain small unmanned aircraft: registration as an SUA operator
Certain small unmanned aircraft: requirement for acknowledgement of competency
Certain small unmanned aircraft: requirement for registration as SUA operator
Interpretation of expressions used in the definition of “flight restriction zone of a protected aerodrome”
Meaning of “remote pilot” and “SUA operator”
Part 6 — Aircrew
Requirement for appropriate licence to act as member of flight crew of non-Part-21 aircraft registered in the United Kingdom
Unlimited fine- Hold a valid flight crew licence for non-Part-21 aircraft Any Person
Requirement for appropriate licence to act as member of flight crew of ... aircraft registered elsewhere than in the United Kingdom
- Ensure flight crew have valid foreign or UK licences for non-UK aircraft Any Person
Permission required where pilot's licence does not meet relevant minimum standards
- Obtain permission for pilots with restricted or non-standard licences Any Person
Grant, renewal and privileges of United Kingdom flight crew licences
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA must grant flight crew licences to qualified applicants Statutory regulator
Ratings and certificates
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA must issue pilot ratings and certificates upon proof of qualification Statutory regulator
Maintenance of privileges of aircraft ratings specified in Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Schedule 8 in United Kingdom pilot licences for balloons, airships and gyroplanes
- Maintain valid revalidation certificates for balloon, airship, and gyroplane ratings Any Person
Maintenance of privileges of aircraft ratings for United Kingdom aeroplane and helicopter licences specified in Chapter 2 of Part 1 of Schedule 8
- Maintain and revalidate aeroplane and helicopter pilot ratings Licence Holder
Maintenance of privileges of other certificates and ratings specified in Chapter 1 or Chapter 2 of Part 2 of Schedule 8
- Maintain and revalidate specific pilot ratings and instructor certificates Any Person
Maintenance of privileges of certificates and ratings included in a National Private Pilot’s Licence or Light Aircraft Pilot’s Licence
- Maintain valid certificates for pilot licence privileges Any Person
Maintenance of privileges of Flight Engineers' Licences
- Ensure Flight Engineer's Licence has a valid revalidation certificate Any Person
Maintenance of privileges of Flight Navigators' Licences
- Maintain and revalidate Flight Navigator Licences Any Person
Requirement for a medical certificate for a United Kingdom licence
- Ensure you hold a valid medical certificate for your flight licence Licence Holder
Issue and validity of a medical certificate for a United Kingdom licence
- Undergo medical assessment for aviation licence as required by the CAA Applicant
Requirement for a Part MED medical certificate for a Part-FCL , Part-SFCL or Part-BFCL licence
- Hold a valid medical certificate or declaration to fly Any Person
Medical requirements for specified United Kingdom licences and National Private Pilot's Licences
- Hold a valid medical certificate or declaration to fly specified aircraft Any Person
Issue of Light Aircraft Pilot Licence medical certificates
- Keep Light Aircraft Pilot Licence medical certificate records for 10 years Self-Employed Person
Person not to fly after failing test
- Do not fly if you have failed a required competency test Licence Holder
Instruction in flying
- Hold a valid instructor rating to provide flight training Any Person
Glider pilots – minimum age
- Do not allow anyone under 14 to pilot a non-Part-21 glider Any Person
Licences and ratings no longer to be granted
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA must stop issuing certain legacy pilot licences Statutory regulator
Status of licences issued by the CAA
- Recognise the reclassification of older pilot licences Any Person
Fatigue of crew – operator's responsibilities
- Manage aircrew fatigue and maintain flight records Operator
Fatigue of crew – responsibilities of crew
- Prevent crew fatigue and report previous flight times Any Person
Fatigue of crew – responsibilities of ... Part-CAT operators
- Get approval for and implement a crew fatigue management scheme Operator
Aerobatic rating
Amended 1 time- Obtain an aerobatic rating for pilot licences issued after September 2025 Any Person
Browse 21 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Requirement for appropriate licence to act as member of flight crew of Part-21 aircraft registered in the United Kingdom
Appropriate licence
Flight crew licence requirement – exception to act as flight radiotelephony operator
Flight crew licence requirement – exception for solo flying training in non-Part-21 aircraft
Flight crew licence requirement – exception for dual flying training in non-Part-21 aircraft
Flight crew licence requirement – exception for balloons
Flight crew licence requirement – exception for pilot undergoing training or tests in non-Part-21 aircraft
Flight crew licence requirement – exception for navigators and flight engineers in non-Part-21 aircraft
Flight crew licence requirement – exception for members of HM Forces
Flight crew licence requirement – exception for non-Part-21 gliders
Flight crew licence requirement – exception for non-Part-21 aircraft where CAA permission granted
Requirement for appropriate licence to act as member of flight crew of EASA aircraft and specified non-EASA aircraft registered elsewhere than in the United Kingdom
Deeming a non-United Kingdom flight crew licence and any Part-FCL or Part-BFCL licence valid for non-Part-21 aircraft registered in the United Kingdom and deeming a non-United Kingdom radiotelephony licence valid for any aircraft
Occupational health medical practitioners
Licence holder not to act as member of flight crew when unfit
Approval of training and testing
Validation of licences
Application and interpretation of this Chapter
Flight times – responsibilities of flight crew
Protection of air crew from cosmic radiation
Declared training organisation
Part 7 — Air traffic services
Duty of person in charge to be satisfied as to competence of controllers
- Ensure air traffic controllers are licensed and competent Any Person
Provision of air traffic services
- Notify the CAA and provide air traffic services at aerodromes Any Person
Making of an air traffic direction in the interests of safety
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA may direct aerodromes to provide air traffic or radio services Statutory regulator
Making of a direction for airspace policy purposes
- CAA may direct air traffic service providers to provide specific services Any Person
Use of radio call signs at aerodromes
- Use only notified radio call signs at aerodromes Any Person
Approval of instrument flight procedures
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA must approve all instrument flight procedures Statutory regulator
Prohibition of unlicensed student air traffic controllers and air traffic controllers
- Air traffic controllers in Shanwick Oceanic must hold specific CAA licences Any Person
Prohibition of unlicensed flight information service officers
Unlimited fine- Ensure flight information service officers are licensed and identified Any Person
Licensing of flight information service officers
- Obtain and maintain a valid Flight Information Service Officer licence Any Person
Prohibition of unauthorised operation of an aeronautical radio station
- Hold a certificate of competence to operate an aeronautical radio station Any Person
Aeronautical radio station operator certificate of competence
- Ensure radio operators are certified and aerodrome-competent Any Person
Browse 16 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Requirement for an air traffic control approval
Manual of air traffic services
Period for which a student air traffic controller licence remains in force
Inclusion of national endorsements
Fatigue of air traffic controllers
Acting under the influence of psychoactive substances or medicines
Failing exams, assessments or tests
Use and approval of simulators
Approval of courses, persons and simulators
Certification of training organisations
Certified training organisation: production of records
Meaning of terms used in this Chapter
Flight information service manual
Approval of courses, persons, examinations and simulators
Air traffic service equipment
Air traffic service equipment records
Part 8 — Aerodromes, lighting and en-route obstacles
Requirement to use national licensed, ... certified or Government aerodrome
Unlimited fine- Use only regulated aerodromes for specified flights Any Person
Aerodromes – use for purposes of flying instruction and testing
- Ensure aerodrome safety for flight training and testing Operator
Licensing of aerodromes
- Obtain and maintain a national aerodrome licence Licence Holder
Issue of aerodrome safety directives for national licensed aerodromes
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CAA must issue safety directives if unsafe conditions are found Statutory regulator
Public use licence
- Notify operating hours for public use aerodromes Any Person
Charges at aerodromes with a public use licence
- Provide aerodrome charge information to the Secretary of State Any Person
Use of aerodromes by aircraft of Contracting States and of the Commonwealth
- Provide equal access to aerodromes for Commonwealth and foreign aircraft Any Person
Powers of aerodrome firefighters in an emergency
- Obstruct aerodrome firefighters in an emergency Any Person
Aeronautical lights
- Obtain CAA permission for aeronautical lights and beacons Any Person
Lights liable to endanger
Unlimited fine- Do not exhibit lights that endanger aircraft Occupier
Lights which dazzle or distract
- Do not dazzle or distract pilots with lights Any Person
Browse 9 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Flights which must use licensed or Government aerodrome
Helicopters flying for public transport at night
Use of Government aerodromes
Noise and vibration caused by aircraft on aerodromes
Customs and Excise aerodromes
Aviation fuel at aerodromes
Lighting of en-route obstacles
Lighting of wind turbine generators in United Kingdom territorial waters
Notifications relating to en-route obstacles
Part 9 — Documents and records
Aircraft continuing airworthiness record system for non-Part-21 aircraft
Unlimited fine- Maintain and preserve airworthiness records for non-Part-21 aircraft Operator
Technical log for non-Part-21 aircraft
- Keep and maintain a technical log for eligible non-Part-21 aircraft Operator
Personal flying log
- Maintain a personal flying log Any Person
Use of flight recording systems
- Use flight recording systems during aircraft operation Any Person
Preservation of records of aeroplane flight data recorder
- Preserve flight data recorder records and representative flight data Operator
Preservation of records of helicopter flight data recorder
- Preserve helicopter flight data recorder (FDR) records Operator
Preservation of records of helicopter cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder
- Preserve helicopter cockpit voice and flight data recordings Operator
Production of documents and records
- Produce aviation documents and records upon request Licence Holder
Production of air traffic service equipment documents and records
- Produce air traffic service equipment records when requested Any Person
Preservation of documents, etc
- Transfer and preserve aircraft records when ownership or operation changes Operator
Browse 3 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Part 10 — Prohibited behaviour, directives, rules, powers and penalties
Power to prohibit or restrict flying
- Comply with flying restrictions and ATC instructions in restricted airspace Operator
Endangering safety of an aircraft
Unlimited fine- Do not endanger the safety of an aircraft or its passengers Any Person
Endangering safety of any person or property
Unlimited fine- Do not endanger people or property with an aircraft Any Person
Drunkenness in aircraft
Unlimited fine- Prevent drunkenness and drug impairment on aircraft Any Person
Smoking in aircraft
- Display 'No Smoking' notices and prevent smoking on aircraft Any Person
Authority of pilot in command of an aircraft
Unlimited fine- Obey all lawful commands given by the pilot in command Any Person
Acting in a disruptive manner
Unlimited fine- Do not behave in a disruptive or threatening manner on an aircraft Any Person
Stowaways
- Do not hide on an aircraft to travel without permission Any Person
Flights over any foreign country
- Comply with foreign laws and air authority directions during overseas flights Operator
Rules of the Air
- Comply with Rules of the Air and report emergency departures Operator
Filing and approval of tariffs
- File and seek approval for flight tariffs if required Operator
Prohibitions in relation to documents and records
- Ensure accuracy and integrity of aviation documents and records Any Person
Grounded aircraft not to fly
- Do not fly an aircraft that has been grounded Any Person
Obstruction of persons
Unlimited fine- Do not obstruct or impede aviation officials Any Person
Offences and penalties
Unlimited fine- Breach Air Navigation Order or related regulations Any Person
- Contravene serious aviation safety provisions (Schedule 13 Part 4) Any Person
Offences: Contravention of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 on the rules and procedures for the operation of unmanned aircraft – UAS operator
Amended 2 timesOffences: Contravention of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 on the rules and procedures for the operation of unmanned aircraft – remote pilot
Amended 2 times- Contravene EU drone operating rules as a remote pilot Any Person
Offence: registration of certified unmanned aircraft
Amended 2 times- Fail to register a certified unmanned aircraft Any Person
Minimum age requirements: UAS operators and remote pilots
Fine up to £2,500 Amended 2 times- Operate unmanned aircraft with under‑aged remote pilot Any Person
- Permit underage remote pilot to fly UAS Any Person
Offences: tethered small unmanned aircraft
Fine up to £2,500 Amended 2 times- Fly tethered drone without complying with regulations Any Person
- Fly tethered small drone without meeting required regulations Any Person
Penalties
Fine up to £2,500 Amended 2 times- Breach of remote‑pilot competency or registration requirements Any Person
- Fail to comply with small drone registration or competency rules Any Person
Browse 22 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Operational directives
Restriction on carriage, where valuable consideration is given or promised, in aircraft registered elsewhere than in the United Kingdom
Restriction on commercial operations in aircraft registered elsewhere than in the United Kingdom
Revocation, suspension and variation of certificates, licences and other documents
Provisional suspension or variation of EASA certificates, licences and other documents
Revocation, suspension and variation of permissions, etc granted under article 250 or article 252
CAA's power to prevent aircraft flying
Secretary of State's power to prevent aircraft flying
Directions to operators of aircraft to make data available
Right of access to aerodromes and other places
Access and inspection for airworthiness purposes
Directions and directives
Exemption from Order
Appeal to County Court or Sheriff Court
Approval of persons to supply reports
Certificates, authorisations, approvals and permissions
Competent authority
Functions under the Basic EASA Regulation to be exercised by the CAA
Functions under the EASA Aircrew Regulation to be exercised by the CAA
Functions under the Occurrence Reporting Regulation to be exercised by the CAA
Decisions under article 250(1A) and (1B)
Fixed penalty offences
Part 11 — Revocations and savings, consequential amendments and transitional arrangements
Browse 1 other section in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Part 12 — Review
Browse 1 other section in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Review
Schedules
AIR TRAFFIC SERVICE EQUIPMENT – RECORDS REQUIRED AND MATTERS TO WHICH THE CAA MAY HAVE REGARD
- Maintain and identify air traffic service equipment records Any Person
Terrain awareness warning system
- Fit terrain awareness warning system on turbine aeroplanes with over 9 seats Any Person
Radio communication equipment
- Fit aircraft with independent two-way radio for airspace requirements Any Person
Operating lights
- Equip flying machines with required lights for night operations Operator
Retention of records
- Set up a system to keep aircraft records for the required periods Operator
Operator's technical log
- Maintain operator's technical log with required flight and maintenance information Operator
Flight engineers
- Ensure flight engineers are tested and hold valid test results Operator
Flight radiotelephony operators and flight navigators
- Test competence of flight radiotelephony operators and navigators Operator
Pilot in Command of Aircraft
- Ensure pilot-in-command has adequate route knowledge and assess competence Operator
Contents of records
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of crew training and competence Operator
Production of records to authorised person
- Produce records to CAA when requested Operator
Supply of records to crew member
- Supply crew qualification records on request Operator
Single Engine Piston (SEP) class rating (1) Subject to paragraphs...
- Complete differences training before flying certain aircraft types Any Person
Browse 160 other Schedules — structural / supplementary
PARTS OF STRAITS SPECIFIED IN CONNECTION WITH THE FLIGHT OF AIRCRAFT IN TRANSIT OVER UNITED KINGDOM TERRITORIAL WATERS
FLIGHT CREW OF AIRCRAFT – LICENCES, RATINGS, QUALIFICATIONS AND MAINTENANCE OF LICENCE PRIVILEGES
DOCUMENTS TO BE CARRIED
REVOCATIONS AND SAVINGS, CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENTS AND TRANSITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
In this Order— “the 2015 Regulations” means the International Interests...
References in this Order to— (a) a certificate of airworthiness...
The expressions appearing in the “Classification of Aircraft” in Part...
(1) “Microlight aeroplane” means an aircraft described in sub-paragraph (2),...
The parts of straits specified in paragraph 2 are specified...
(1) In the Straits of Dover, the territorial waters adjacent...
Position and size of marks – heavier than air aircraft
Position and size of marks – airships and free balloons
Width, spacing and thickness of marks
Instruments and equipment — general
Operations under Instrument Flight Rules — flight and navigational instruments and associated equipment – aeroplanes
Operations under Visual Flight Rules — flight and navigational instruments and associated equipment – helicopters and gyroplanes
Operations under Instrument Flight Rules — flight and navigational instruments and associated equipment – helicopters and gyroplanes
Additional equipment for single pilot operations under Instrument Flight Rules – helicopters and gyroplanes
Navigation equipment
Transponder
Airborne collision avoidance system II
Maps and charts
Seats, seat safety belts, restraint systems and child restraint devices
Supplemental oxygen — pressurised flying machines
Supplemental oxygen — non-pressurised flying machines
Hand fire extinguishers
Marking of break-in areas
Flight over water
Operations under Visual Flight Rules — flight and navigational instruments and associated equipment – aeroplanes
Marking of break-in areas
Aircraft continuing airworthiness records
Aircraft log book
Engine, propeller and component logs
(1) A certificate of revalidation required by article 157 for...
(1) A certificate of revalidation required by article 157 for...
Definitions and validity periods
Deemed compliance
Circumstances in which documents are to be carried
Description of documents
Exceptions
Meaning of “international air navigation”
The manner in which the apparatus has been or will...
The manner in which the apparatus has been or will...
The name and status of the accountable manager having corporate...
For an aerodrome in relation to which there is a...
Description, height and location of obstacles which infringe standard obstacle...
Data for and method of calculation of declared distances and...
Method of calculating reduced declared distances and the procedure for...
Details of surfaces and bearing strengths of runways, taxiways and...
The system of the management of air traffic in the...
Operational procedures for the routine and special inspection of the...
If operations are permitted during periods of low visibility, procedures...
Procedures for the safe integration of all aviation activities undertaken...
Details of or reference to the bird control management plan....
The names and status of other senior aerodrome operating staff...
Procedures for the use and inspection of the aeronautical ground...
The scale of rescue, first aid and fire service facilities,...
Details of the safety management system.
The system of aeronautical information service available.
Procedures for promulgating information concerning the aerodrome's state.
Procedures for the control of access, vehicles and work in...
Procedures for the removal of disabled aircraft.
In the case of an aerodrome which has facilities for...
(1) Subject to sub-paragraph (2), plans to an appropriate scale...
The instruments specified in column 1 of the table, with...
Amendment of the Air Navigation (Isle of Man) Order 2015
Amendment of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exclusions and Exceptions) (Scotland) Order 2013
Amendment of Rehabilitation of Offenders (Exceptions) Order (Northern Ireland) 1979
Amendment of the Planning (General Permitted Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015
Amendment of the Planning (General Development Procedure) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015
Log Books
Equipment of non-Part-21 aircraft
Instructor ratings
Aircraft markings
Certificates of experience and test
Amendment of the Police Act 1997
Medical declarations
Amendment of the Civil Aviation (Working Time) Regulations 2004
Amendment of the Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012
Amendment of the Kentish Flats Extension Order 2013
Amendment of the Wireless Telegraphy (Limitation of Number of Licences) Order 2014
Amendment of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014
Amendment of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015
Amendment of the Rules of the Air Regulations 2015
Private Pilot's Licence (Aeroplanes)
Minimum age:
17 years Privileges: (1) The holder of a Private Pilot's...
Commercial Pilot's Licence (Aeroplanes)
Minimum age:
18 years Privileges: (1) The holder of a Commercial Pilot's...
Airline Transport Pilot's Licence (Aeroplanes)
Minimum age:
21 years Privileges: The holder of an Airline Transport Pilot's...
Private Pilot's Licence (Balloons and Airships)
Minimum age:
17 years Privileges: (1) The holder of a Private Pilot's...
Commercial Pilot's Licence (Balloons)
Minimum age:
18 years Privileges: (1) The holder of a Commercial Pilot's...
Commercial Pilot's Licence (Airships)
Minimum age:
18 years Privileges: The holder of a Commercial Pilot's Licence...
Private Pilot's Licence (Helicopters)
Minimum age:
17 years Privileges: (1) The holder of a Private Pilot's...
Commercial Pilot's Licence (Helicopters)
Minimum age:
18 years Privileges: (1) The holder of a Commercial Pilot's...
Airline Transport Pilot's Licence (Helicopters)
Minimum age:
21 years Privileges: The holder of an Airline Transport Pilot's...
Private Pilot's Licence (Gyroplanes)
Minimum age:
17 years Privileges: (1) The holder of a Private Pilot's...
Commercial Pilot's Licence (Gyroplanes)
Minimum age:
18 years Privileges: (1) The holder of a Commercial Pilot's...
Commercial Pilot's Licence (Helicopters and Gyroplanes)
Minimum age:
18 years Privileges: (1) The holder of a Commercial Pilot's...
Airline Transport Pilot's Licence (Helicopters and Gyroplanes)
Minimum age:
21 years Privileges: The holder of an Airline Transport Pilot's...
Flight Navigator's Licence
Minimum age:
21 years Privileges: The holder of a Flight Navigator's Licence...
Flight Engineer's Licence
Minimum age:
21 years Privileges: The holder of a Flight Engineer's Licence...
Flight Radiotelephony Operator's Licence
Minimum age:
14 years Privileges: The holder of a Flight Radiotelephony Operator's...
National Private Pilot's Licence (Aeroplanes)
Minimum age:
17 years Privileges and conditions: (1) The holder of a...
Light Aircraft Pilot's Licence (Helicopters)
Minimum age:
17 years Privileges and conditions: (1) The holder of a...
Flight instructor certificate (aeroplane)
Flight instructor certificate (helicopter)
Flight instructor certificate (gyroplanes)
Flight instructor certificate (restricted) (gyroplanes)
Type rating instructor certificate (multi-pilot aeroplane)
Type rating instructor certificate (helicopter)
Class rating instructor certificate (single-pilot aeroplane)
Instrument rating instructor certificate (aeroplane)
Instrument rating instructor certificate (helicopter)
Instrument rating (aeroplane)
Instrument rating (helicopter)
An instrument meteorological conditions rating (aeroplanes) entitles the holder of...
Night rating (helicopters)
Night rating (gyroplanes)
Night rating (balloons and airships)
Night rating (aeroplanes)
Microlight class rating (1) Subject to paragraphs (2) to (6)...
TMG class rating (1) Subject to paragraph (2) and to...
Flight instructor's certificate (microlight)
Flight instructor's certificate (restricted) (microlight) (1) Subject to paragraphs (2)...
Flight instructor’s certificate (TMG) (1) A flight instructor’s certificate (TMG)...
Helicopter type rating
Other sections — not classified into a Part
These sections sit outside the numbered Parts — usually provisions added or moved by later amendments.
sch. 3 para. 3
- Operate aircraft only under approved experimental test programme conditions Operator
sch. 3 para. 6
- Only carry authorised persons and cargo on your aircraft Operator
sch. 3 para. 7
- Carry only authorised persons or cargo on the aircraft Operator
Recent experience condition
- Pilots must have recent flying experience before carrying passengers Licence Holder
sch. 9 para. 1
- Include detailed operational procedures in your operations manual Operator
Pilots
- Test IFR pilots on normal and emergency instrument procedures Operator
Browse 19 other sections
sch. 11 para. 1
sch. 11 para. 2
sch. 3 para. 4
sch. 3 para. 5
General
Equipment which must be carried
sch. 6 para. 2
sch. 6 para. 3
sch. 6 para. 4
Scales of equipment
Exception to the recent experience condition
Excepted flights condition
sch. 8 para. 4
Citation and commencement
The purposes in the case of an aircraft falling within...
For the purpose of this Schedule, “a previously approved modification”...
Single Engine (Gyroplanes)
Instrument meteorological conditions rating (aeroplanes)
Aerobatic rating (aeroplanes)
Official guidance
Authoritative sources published by regulators or government explaining this legislation.
- Consignment / Shipment notification | Office for Nuclear Regulation (opens in a new tab) from ONR Detailed Guidance
- Expectations of the UK aviation industry | UK Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new tab) from CAA Detailed Guidance
- The UK aviation system | UK Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new tab) from CAA Detailed Guidance
- General aviation | UK Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new tab) from CAA Detailed Guidance
- Information for GA pilot training organisations and flying schools | UK Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new tab) from CAA Detailed Guidance
- Flights after completing a skill test but prior to receipt of a licence | UK Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new tab) from CAA Detailed Guidance
- NPPL national private pilot licence | UK Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new tab) from CAA Detailed Guidance
- 5 in 13 transition | UK Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new tab) from CAA Detailed Guidance
- Pilot Medical Declaration Project | UK Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new tab) from CAA Detailed Guidance
- Multi engine piston rating for aeroplanes | UK Civil Aviation Authority (opens in a new tab) from CAA Detailed Guidance
- ... and 97 more
Enforcement and responsible bodies
The regulators that administer or enforce this legislation.
Civil Aviation Authority
UK's aviation regulator. Responsible for aviation safety, airspace policy, economic regulation of airports, and consumer protection. Issues air operator certificates, pilot licences, …
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