Supporting members as aviation changes
The aviation sector is growing so rapidly that the ONS cites the rising price of travel as key to current inflation. Passenger numbers have also been increasing since the pandemic. This won’t, however, continue forever as global instability is impacting travel and could alter passenger behaviour.
Aviation infrastructure is also expanding: a new commercial airport is set to open in Doncaster in 2026, while Luton, Gatwick, and Heathrow are all undergoing expansions.
Regional airports and engineering licences in the spotlight
Engineering bases are also emerging across the country and revitalising the prospects of small regional airports. Ten years ago, the industry shifted to a model focused on high passenger traffic, centralising flights to larger airports. This left regional airports at the mercy of low-cost carriers and made their closure seem inevitable. Now, with engineering moving back to local airports, these facilities have received a new lease on life, although concerns remain.
The industry has consistently pursued mutual recognition of engineering licenses between the UK and Europe. While there was some hope that the government would address this in recent EU talks, EASA has remained resistant, seeing little benefit for European firms.
This resistance has prompted TUI to relocate engineering operations to Europe, highlighting the ongoing impacts of Brexit, with the future of the UK industry hanging in the balance. Furthermore, military-funded businesses are facing issues including a gap in the Ministry of Defence budget amidst the ongoing defence review. We are committed to supporting affected members.
Emerging technology: drones and space
There is significant growth in commercial and military drone applications. These companies, often spun off by the big players in the industry, are getting bigger. We are looking to organise them to help further grow our union and ensure people working in these areas are well supported.
The recent issue of the first license for vertical launches in the UK marks a pivotal moment and we are looking to organise workers in space companies. This is a long-term project and it is under constant review as the industry continues to evolve.
Looking ahead: policy, regulation and workforce
In the recent government reshuffle, Keir Mathers MP was appointed as the new aviation minister and we have written to him seeking a meeting. It is unclear what the government’s long-term strategy for aviation is beyond increasing infrastructure. In the absence of a clear strategy, civil servants will continue to work under previous instructions regarding the direction of regulation.
The CAA is set to roll out digital licensing in 2026, starting with ATCOs. We understand that some Prospect members are concerned about this project due to the fundamental importance of licenses and recent issues with CAA IT rollouts. Prospect will engage with the CAA throughout the project and do everything possible to ensure members are protected.
Following the arm’s length body review, the CAA has capped increases to its charges below inflation. This has had a significant impact on its budget and particularly staff pay. It is now reviewing its charges to ensure they accurately reflect the costs incurred.
This summer, a consultation took place on granting the CAA more power to amend regulation without needing to go through a full parliamentary process each time. Prospect responded to the consultation, showing broad support for this move. Further legislation would be required to amend the CAA’s responsibilities but this could lead to faster regulatory changes.
The Employment Rights Bill should pass this year, including improved access rights for unions. This will allow us to organise in some large aviation employers who have historically opposed union recognition. We hope this legislation will help redress the power imbalances between companies and unions in accessing the workforce.
We will continue to meet regularly with the Department for Transport and the CAA regarding regulation and policy matters. With UKADS starting work and the CAA commencing the NERL NR28 review, it will be a busy year for Prospect in aviation.
As Prospect continues to engage with government, regulators and employers, we’ll ensure all members remain protected and are well represented.
Rachel Curley, Deputy General Secretary & David Avery, National Secretary for Aviation
Rachel is Prospect’s Deputy General Secretary leading on key industrial and organisational priorities across the union. She works with the Aviation, Tech and Telecoms sectors to strengthen Prospect’s voice and ensure members’ interests are represented at every level.
David Avery, National Secretary for Aviation, represents Prospect members across the aviation and aerospace industries. He works with branches, employers and government to secure fair pay, safe workplaces and a sustainable future for the sector.
