The United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority is looking to facilitate the development of safe and useful RPAS and AAM test sites, where market entrants can test and evaluate their products.

This document is the summary of the key findings of the consultation exercise conducted to understand innovators’ key requirements of test facilities for their novel products.

The CAA aims to support rapid aviation innovation by understanding and addressing the needs of operators and manufacturers during testing. A survey conducted in June 2023 highlighted diverse needs and regulatory barriers faced by the industry.

The CAA has established a Test and Evaluation team, issued new policies for RPAS modifications, and begun collaborating with the Ministry of Defence.

Future Plans: The CAA plans to develop a Pre-defined Risk Assessment for RPAS testing, create a list of test sites, and support hydrogen test sites.

15 August 2024