An update will be made to the DAP1916 Statement of Need form on 28th October 2025. The change refers to when a sponsor ticks the ‘Applicability and Policy Alignment Check’ or ‘PBN’ box on the form.
An ‘Applicability and Policy Alignment Check’ is where a sponsor approaches the CAA to assess their view that they have ‘identified a change in airspace design that will not alter air flight behaviours, but is unsure whether they are able to submit an aeronautical information publication change request directly to the UK Aeronautical Information Service’ – see CAP 1616 V5.1, paragraph 2.8.
A sponsor approaches the CAA for an ‘Applicability and Policy Alignment Check’ by submitting a DAP1916 – Statement of Need, and the CAA reviews the information provided to assess the proposal and advise the change sponsor accordingly – see CAP 1616 V5.1, paragraph 2.9.
The additional questions are designed to clarify the content the CAA expect to receive to enable the assessment of the proposal. This will assist faster processing of ‘APAC’ assessments and reduce the need for CAA clarification questions prior to deciding on a proposal.
The PBN section additions are designed to obtain an early indication of whether an ACP has PBN elements - and enable sponsors to briefly explain what those are.
A note is also added to the ‘Additional Information’ question reminding sponsors of the CAA’s requirement to ensure any changes maintain a high standard of safety (in accordance with the direction given in section 70, paragraph 1 of the Transport Act 2000.
When completing a DAP1916 Statement of Need form, sponsors are encouraged to provide the CAA with as much information as possible for their reasoning and to include precise details of the associated UK AIP update.