Regulator's message to aerospace sector on eve of Farnborough International Airshow

As the Farnborough International Airshow kicks off, with more than 80,000 in attendance, Sir Stephen Hillier, Chair of the UK Civil Aviation Authority provides his view on the revolution happening in aerospace and how the regulator is rising to the challenge.  

Sir Stephen Hillier said:  

“Two years ago, as we emerged from the Covid pandemic I said we were on the cusp of the next aerospace revolution.   

“I spoke of the huge changes coming to how people move around cities and leaps forward for sustainable aerospace. As the industry gathers here at Farnborough, it’s clear that we are now witnessing that revolution taking place.   

“The advancements in technology, coupled with an increased focus on sustainability, places us in the midst of a transformative era in aviation.   

“At the UK Civil Aviation Authority, we are playing a leading role in fostering an environment where innovation can flourish while ensuring the highest levels of safety and security for the public.  

“Since the Airshow was last held, we’ve played a key role in enabling the industry to develop and grow by enabling testing and working on the development of new regulatory frameworks and services. As the sector continues to innovate and develop new technologies, it is our role to enable this new activity by anticipating the regulatory challenges and how these new forms of aerospace can be safely integrated into the existing system.   

“We know new parts of the aerospace sector are developing rapidly – from space flight, to drones and advanced air mobility.  At the same time, the challenges of sustainability (carbon, air quality, noise) mean that new technological and policy solutions are required for the sector to be able to grow ever more sustainably.  Modernising the design of the UK’s airspace, sustainable aviation fuels and new forms of propulsion such as hydrogen and electric need to be accelerated.  

“All of this work and more is why we set out our new strategy to help us fulfil our mission: protecting people, enabling aerospace. Right now, that means continuing to prioritise our core safety, security, and consumer roles, while looking ahead to significant future changes that will come from airspace modernisation, taking into account the views of industry and the vital benefits of this change. Overhauling our airspace is a long-term and complex endeavour, requiring concerted efforts and collaboration from the aerospace industry.   

“But innovation in aerospace is not possible without harnessing the young talent we have across the country and encouraging careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).   

“We want to inspire and invest in young people to create opportunities for the next generation of our sector. We’re proud to partner with organisations such as the Jon Egging Trust, Fantasy Wings and Primary Engineer to reach young people of all backgrounds to explore careers in aviation and be inspired by flight.  

“The Farnborough International Airshow provides a glimpse into this future, showcasing the innovations that will shape the next generation of aerospace, both in the vehicles and technology that makes flight possible, and in inspiring young people to discover what aerospace could offer them.  

 “We can’t do this without working closely with the sector to drive growth, share knowledge, and develop new ways of working.   

“Once again, we have a stand at the Airshow (Hall 4, no. 4338) and look forward to meeting you and hearing about the work you are doing as part of the revolution above our heads.  Together, we are shaping the future of aerospace, and I look forward to the exciting developments that lie ahead.”