CAA launches consultation on safety at fly-ins

Fly-ins at airfields are the life-blood of light aviation, many would feel, but are they always well organised and safe?

The CAA has started a consultation on non statutory safety guidance it intends to publish in April 2026. The consultation runs from the 12 January to the 16 February 2026.

The guidance is for organisers and participating pilots of fly-ins, air rallies and races/contests that do not fall into the scope of CAP403 (Flying Displays and Special Events).

“Though this CAP does not introduce any new regulatory requirements, it is vital that the document reflects relevant practices in the general aviation community to allow these events to continue to flourish,” said the CAA.

“This CAP (document) has been developed with the help of a working group comprising of several areas of the GA community. However, wider feedback from the GA community is crucial in supporting this to ensure the document is clear and unambiguous.”

Click here to download CAP1988 Safety Guidance for Air Rallies, Fly-ins, Air Races/Contests and Charity Events

The guidance includes:

• The Event Organiser (EO) is recommended to provide detailed briefing material to all pilots prior to the event, including:
  • Airfield Information and layout map including taxi routes and parking areas.
  • Departure/Arrival and Circuit Information including any local sensitive/avoid areas.
  • Relevant ATS and airspace information.
• If the proposed event is to be held at an unlicensed or off-airfield venue, then a pre-assessment of the terrain, approaches, surfaces, overshoots, and other operational aspects is recommended to be considered.
• Where possible it is advisable to continue the use of well-established joining and circuit procedures that an airfield may already have to avoid unnecessary complexity.
• Participating pilots are encouraged to use suitable forms of electronic conspicuity.
• A wind indicator should be established (if not already installed).
• A suitable method of identifying the runway in use from the air is put in place, if non radio traffic is likely.

Click here to have your say in the consultation.