RAeS calls on government to maximise value of UK aerospace
The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) says the new government has a vital role in keeping the UK globally connected and secure by maximising the value of UK aerospace and driving sustainability, air power and space, innovation and upskilling.
Above: The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), 4 Hamilton Place, Mayfair, London.
Courtesy RAeS
Aerospace and aviation connect people, business and countries, whilst generating value for the nation, creating high-value jobs and contributing to the protection and security of its citizens.
In its position paper (pdf) the RAeS calls on the government to:
1. Modernise our Aviation Infrastructure with safe and secure, sustainable and innovative technologies
A strategic approach for safe and secure infrastructure modernisation, focusing on sustainable development and the incorporation of green technologies to meet environmental targets is an imperative. As we move towards 2025 and beyond, the UK's focus on modernising its aerospace systems and infrastructure to support global mobility will require a collaborative effort. Commercial aviation is at a turning point with consideration being given to alternative solutions and fuels which will inevitably require government support. By leveraging technological innovations and prioritising safety and sustainability, the UK can maintain its position in the global aerospace arena, ensuring a secure, connected and prosperous future.
2. Increase Air Power and Space Capability
The government as a priority should urgently address gaps in vital air power capability and accelerate investment in the creation of an agile, resilient and technologically advanced air force to ensure the UK remains well defended and secure and maintains its role in supporting global security. It is essential for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to move forward at pace. Space exploration and satellite technology are also of vital strategic importance for national security, global telecommunications and Earth observation. The government should support UK growth in this sector and its integration with the global space economy. The government cannot afford to neglect air power and space defence considering the growing geo-political challenges facing the world over the coming decade.
3. Accelerate Regulatory Frameworks for Future Flight Technology
The government should accelerate the development of new legal and regulatory frameworks with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), as well as maintaining access to EU frameworks through the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Creating flexible, forward-looking regulatory frameworks will be paramount in harnessing the potential of future flight technologies. This approach will ensure the UK's airspace remains safe, competitive and conducive to innovation, positioning the country as a leader in the next generation of aviation and aerospace development.
4. Maximise Economic Benefits
Investment in aerospace, aviation, and space remains vital for the UK’s economic growth and national security. An investment-friendly environment should include regulatory stability, tax incentives and streamlined procurement processes. The government will need to sustain, multiyear investment in industry to support the UK’s global competitiveness. Any new strategic approach by the government should be underpinned by providing an attractive investment environment, addressing on-going workforce shortages and putting the UK on a more resilient, competitive footing.
5. Develop Future and Existing Talent
To maintain a steady stream of skilled personnel into the sector, including pilots and engineers, the government should ensure that vocational training and STEM is accessible to everyone to prepare the next generation of aerospace engineers, technicians and scientists. This includes expanding apprenticeship programmes, enhancing university-industry collaboration and ensuring diversity and inclusion within the workforce through professional careers advice and support in schools from an early age to industrial placements with technical colleges and universities. The government can play a stronger coordinating role to maximise the initiatives and programmes in addressing the current skills gap.
Setting out the Society’s priorities for the new government RAeS Chief Executive, David Edwards FRAeS said: “From the outset the new government should continue to invest in essential air power capability, enable the sustainable growth of aviation through research with alternative fuels, invest in new airport infrastructure and airspace modernisation, optimise the economic potential of future flight vehicles and satellite and space technology and help maintain a steady flow of diverse talent in the industry.
"With the active support from and in partnership with the government the aerospace sector can help achieve these goals and assure the UK’s leading position in air connectivity, maintaining international competitiveness and keeping the country secure. The Royal Aeronautical Society looks forward to working with the new government to realise the full potential of the sector.”