Our approach to safety
We use a risk-based approach to safety regulation and seek levels of safety that are appropriate for the various elements of GA. We strive to keep those involved and affected by GA safe.
We use our GA policy framework to judge whether regulations are required and if so the level of requirements and oversight.
Safety resources for general aviation
Our free Clued Up magazine and article series is published periodically and has a wide distribution in the GA community.
The following are extra safety resources that may be useful for GA pilots. The resources are grouped by topic.
Airspace
One of the key safety projects involving GA is the aim to reduce the number of airspace infringements (where an aircraft enters airspace without permission or coordination). This is one of the key areas of work for the joint CAA/NATS and MoD Airspace and Safety Initiative. Useful advice and features are available on the the Initiative's website.
One tool to help cut infringements is for pilots to use listening out squawks. Details of the latest squawks and how to use them available from the Airspace and Safety Initiative.
If a pilot or controller feels two aircraft have come into conflict so that safety may have been compromised they can file a report with the UK Airprox Board, which are available to view.
You can check NOTAMS, charts and airfield information in the UK aeronautical information publication (UK AIP).
Several independent sites provide online flight planning facilities.
Weather
The UK Met Office provides information and weather specifically for GA pilots.
Flying
We publish a set of safety leaflets covering various aspects of GA flying.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) publishes GA safety information.
The Australian ATSB has published useful advice on partial engine failures in single engine aircraft.
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