Source · Select Committees · Science, Innovation and Technology Committee
Recommendation 12
12
Accepted
Paragraph: 79
We were pleased to hear that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has been working with...
Conclusion
We were pleased to hear that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has been working with spaceports, satellite manufacturers, and launch suppliers to ensure that the spaceflight regulations and licence application processes are fit for purpose. However, we are concerned that the CAA is not providing enough support for applicants which could cause delays in the licensing process. The Department for Transport (DfT) should ensure that the CAA is suitably resourced to be able to provide an effective liaison service for each licence applicant to support them with navigating the application process.
Government Response Summary
The DfT fully funds the CAA’s spaceflight regulation functions and works with the CAA to ensure it has the resources necessary to discharge its duties, they engage proactively with all potential licensees and the CAA works with potential applicants to provide guidance as they navigate the regulatory framework.
Paragraph Reference:
79
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The DfT fully funds the CAA’s spaceflight regulation functions and works with the CAA to ensure it has the resources necessary to discharge its duties. The DfT and CAA engages proactively with all potential licensees and the CAA works with potential applicants to provide guidance as they navigate the regulatory framework. There is no shortfall in required funding in this current financial year and subsequent settlements will be agreed with this in mind. The regulations that are in place are new, as are many of the applicants to the process, and as is the regulator in this role. The CAA is working with stakeholders and government to continuously review and evaluate its processes and they have already made changes in response to the individual needs of the applicants, which can vary significantly. As part of this process, they are undertaking work with current licensees to develop additional guidance to support new and existing operators in understanding the application process.