UK CAA Proposes 6.1% Rise in Most Statutory Aviation Charges for 2027/28
Why It MattersA CPIH-linked uplift paired with targeted spending on safety, security, consumer protection and ground handling oversight shows the UK regulator funding expanded statutory duties through charge-payers.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is consulting on its statutory charging plans for 2027/28, proposing a 6.1% increase that applies to most charges. The six-week consultation closes at midnight on 21 December 2026, and the revised Schemes of Charges are intended to take effect on 1 April 2027, subject to approval. The 6.1% figure is not a uniform rise across every charge; individual fees and proposed changes differ by scheme, with more targeted adjustments in areas needing additional oversight.
The CAA describes the general uplift as CPIH-linked and intended to maintain existing regulatory services and capability. Targeted investment is proposed in legislative reform and UK rulemaking, consumer protection, airworthiness capability, safety oversight, aviation security and ground handling oversight. The proposals also cover aspects of the Air Travel Organiser's Licence (ATOL) system, including further spending on supervising licence holders, as well as cargo oversight.
Tracey Martin, the CAA's Chief Financial and Operating Officer, said the regulator aims to improve services and efficiency while meeting new statutory demands, continuing to invest in safety, consumer protection and customer service while delivering value for money. The CAA estimates that its overall cost base is less than 54 pence per UK air passenger and around 0.1% of aviation industry turnover; these are measures of operating cost relative to the sector, not a new direct fee on each passenger.
The CAA also points to its Funding Structure Reform programme, which it says has halved the number of charging documents, reduced their combined volume by approximately two-thirds and removed roughly one-quarter of individual charges. Further digital and licensing-service improvements are planned. The regulator says it challenged and prioritised funding requests, absorbing, deferring or reprioritising some costs to limit the burden on charge-payers. Responses are submitted through the CAA's consultation portal, and after reviewing them the CAA will publish a consultation response setting out final decisions.
