Aviation scoping document published

Britain’s Coalition Government has published its scoping document “Developing a sustainable framework for UK aviation”.  It is a 42-page manuscript that leads off with Transport Secretary Philip Hammond stating “It would be wrong to suggest that the Government holds all the answers.  That is why this document asks a wide range of interested parties for their views on the key questions we face.  Clearly we won't agree on everything, but by working closely with key stakeholders at this early stage, we can provide a policy framework for aviation which strikes a balance between different interests."  This follows quick decisions to cancel Heathrow’s third runway and not to support expansion at Gatwick and Stansted.  Mr Hammond acknowledges aviation’s significant contribution to the country’s economic health.

Comment time has been further extended until 30 September 2011, critics noting that no definitive Government policy on air transport is likely to be published until spring 2012.

The Scoping Document itself is a well laid out paper setting out the essence of civil aviation in the United Kingdom.  It asks a great many questions and expects interested parties to respond.  The consultation will replace the previous Government 2003 White Paper, The Future of Air Transport. www.dft.gov.uk

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