UK CAA Updates Airspace Change Process to Accelerate Modernisation

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has updated its Airspace Change Process to reflect new Government policy in the Air Navigation Directions and Air Navigation Guidance, with the updated CAP1616 taking effect on 1 October 2026. The CAA calls it a significant reform of how airspace changes are proposed, assessed and approved, supporting the UK Airspace Modernisation Strategy and having an immediate effect on proposed airspace changes in the London area. The reforms streamline requirements for lower-impact changes to reduce red tape while maintaining safety oversight and consultation. The CAA says the changes will help reduce flight delays caused by capacity constraints and strengthen alig…