The UK Civil Aviation Authority is helping to enable the next revolution in aviation and aerospace. From electric aircraft and hydrogen propulsion to drones, AI and advanced airspace systems — our role is to make it easier for innovators to bring bold ideas to life, safely. We help them navigate regulation early, reducing barriers and unlocking progress.
We provide clear guidance, offer early engagement, and explore new regulatory approaches to support innovation in a safe and controlled way.
How we support innovation
Through our research and innovation work, we:
- Act as a point of contact for innovators in aviation and aerospace
- Provide expertise, guidance and viewpoints on regulations
- Enable testing through sandbox trials and other projects to help innovators maximise regulatory preparation for their products and services
- Help shape and accelerate the development of policies and regulations, by predicting regulatory challenges in areas of innovation and then considering the requirements for new policies and regulations.
Who we work with
We support companies, researchers, start-ups, other governments and regulators, as well as established industry partners working on:
- Advanced Air Mobility
- Artificial Intelligence
- Beyond Visual Line of Sight drone operations (BVLOS)
- Hydrogen and zero-emission aviation, including aircraft design and airport ground equipment
If you are developing something new, we can help you understand what regulation applies and how to work with us.
Innovation Gateway Service
Do you have a new technology you want to integrate into the aviation system but aren’t sure where to start? The Innovation Gateway Service is here to help.
You might be asking:
- Which regulations apply to my innovation?
- Does my idea fall outside current regulations?
- How do I get the necessary approvals?
We can guide you
The Gateway Service is free to use and offers up to seven hours of expert advisory support.
What to expect
We begin with a conversation to understand your technology. From there, we may:
- Signpost you to the right approval process and explain how to apply.
- Advise on what additional work you need to prepare for approval.
- Arrange targeted discussions with technical experts to help navigate regulations.
- Explore pathways for complex solutions as part of ongoing or new programmes (subject to funding).
- Be honest if your concept is too early for aviation and advise on next steps.
Get in touch
- For enquiries about flying drones Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS):
Email: bvlos@caa.co.uk - For all other innovation topics:
Email: innovation@caa.co.uk