Updated DfT Guidance for General Aviation in England

Please respect the guidance, and the limitations that it means for recreational flying, to help keep the downward trend of Covid-19 infections going.

The government has announced its plans to ease lockdown restrictions.

This is a summary of what this will mean for general aviation in England.

Step 1 - from 29 March

People will no longer be required to stay at home.

This will allow the safe restart of GA flying for non-professional purposes for solo pilots, or individuals flying with a member of their household or bubble.

Training for professional pilots, or those in training to be professional pilots, will be able to continue.

Training for leisure or recreational purposes should not take place.

GA activities should take place in line with the wider restrictions. Travel should be minimised as far as possible.

Step 2 – no earlier than 12 April

Flight training for all pilots, and flights with an instructor, can resume.

GA businesses will be able to open following COVID-secure guidance, for example commercial balloon operators. The rules on social contact will apply in these settings. Outdoor gatherings must still be limited to 6 people or 2 households, and no indoor mixing will be allowed.

GA activities should take place in line with the wider restrictions. Travel should be minimised as far as possible.

BEFORE you fly, please read the returning-to-fly guidance published by the BMAA at this link.

Please respect the guidance, and the limitations that it means for recreational flying, to help keep the downward trend of Covid-19 infections going.