Ministry of Defence Enabling Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Operations from RAF Fairford

Purpose of this change

This proposal is for a Permanent change to the notified airspace design, and the change level is TBC. The detailed process requirements are published in Part 1 of CAP 1616.

In order to support NATO’s Agile Combat Employment concept, the US Air Force is making significant infrastructure investments on airbases in the UK and other allied nations. There is an emerging requirement for military aircraft, including Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), to operate regularly from RAF Fairford. In accordance with CAP 722 – Unmanned Aircraft System Operations in UK Airspace – Guidance and Policy, beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations require either a CAA-approved Detect and Avoid (DAA) capability or to remain within a block of airspace that is segregated from other airspace users. This ACP aims to establish suitable segregated airspace to enable RPAS transition between RAF Fairford and medium- or high-altitude transit.

Potentially Affected Area

This is the area which may be affected by this airspace change depending on its development. This area may change as the proposal is developed.

Step 2a : Develop & Assess

This step has been started

During the Options Development Step, the change sponsor develops one or more design options that address the Statement of Need and align with the defined design principles.