This consultation document sets out our proposals for revisions to the existing UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Schemes of Charges, due to take effect from 1 April 2026.
The increase in statutory charges for the 2026/27 financial year is designed to support expanded investment across the CAA’s regulatory functions. This investment will strengthen consumer and public protection, foster innovation and industry growth, and enhance organisational capability. In doing so, it will enable the CAA to operate with greater agility, improve the effectiveness and efficiency of its services, and attract and retain highly skilled personnel.
We are looking for your feedback on these proposals to make sure that they are fit for purpose, please submit all feedback through this site to ensure we are able to respond to your feedback as efficiently as possible.
The consultation is open for six-week period and closes at midnight on 22 December 2025. Following the consultation period, we will publish a response document reflecting the consultation feedback received from industry and the Secretary of State for Transport.
Why your views matter
We encourage stakeholders to engage with this consultation, as your feedback is vital in shaping a charging framework that is balanced, transparent, and aligned with the needs of the aviation sector. The proposals outlined for FY2026/27 reflect a continued strategic focus on operational agility, improved service delivery, and enhanced regulatory effectiveness—underpinned by principles of sustainability, equity, accountability and clarity.
By participating, stakeholders have the opportunity to influence how charges are structured and applied, ensure that funding supports the right priorities, and help us deliver measurable value across safety, security, consumer protection, and innovation. Your insights will inform our decisions and ensure that the final charging schemes reflect a proportionate and effective approach to regulation.
Extraordinary Consultation Response Document
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) consulted stakeholders on a proposed increase to the funding cap for its economic regulation work supporting Heathrow Airport’s expansion. The proposal aimed to raise the cap from £4.5 million to £8 million for FY2025/26 to address a projected shortfall and maintain delivery momentum.
This funding supports the CAA’s role in enabling the Government’s strategic objective of expanding Heathrow, with planning consent targeted by the end of the current Parliament and operational readiness by 2035. The proposal aligns with the CAA’s funding principles of sustainability, equity, accountability, and clarity.
The consultation, held from 15 September to 13 October 2025, received five responses, including from Heathrow Airport Limited and airline representatives.
This document sets out our responses to stakeholder comments, clarifying cost recovery expectations, outlining how the proposed funding will be used, and highlighting the measures we have in place to ensure delivery efficiency and value-for-money practices.
CAP3188 Statutory Charges FY2025/26 Extraordinary Consultation Response Document