10 January 2025
Of the many ‘alphabet’ organisations in General Aviation, the General Aviation Awareness Council (GAAC) is one of the more obscure to most pilots. That’s all about to change.
New chairman Matt Wilkins, who runs Old Buckenham Airfield in Norfolk, has announced a restructuring to boost GAAC’s work in planning and protecting airfields.
A new vice-chairman has been appointed – Simon Tilling, better known as CEO of the Light Aircraft Association (LAA). Simon will work alongside Chairman Matt Wilkins representing the GAAC at regular meetings and advocacy with Government and the CAA.
Simon Tilling with navigator Emma Taylor at a British Air Racing event
GAAC has also created a new position: Head of Planning, “arguably the most vital role,” said Matt.
“The GAAC’s long standing and well earned reputation has come as a result of being able to offer aerodromes the best possible planning advice in the face of adverse applications and development issues and in recognition that many cannot afford consultant advice.
“That mission will continue with the appointment of Ann Bartaby to the new role.
“Ann, a town planner, has held a great many positions at the pinnacle of aviation, TAG Farnborough, London Luton, BAE Filton and master planning for Bournemouth Airport being some highlights.
“As Chief Executive of Redhill for five years, overseeing substantial renovation, property acquisition andimprovement, Ann also operated the aerodrome. She therefore not only brings unrivalled planning expertise, but also a unique perspective of the priorities of aerodrome operators having fulfilled that role.”
FLYER regulars will recognise Ann Bartaby as one of the founders of the Strategic Aerodrome Network which identifies the key roles GA airfields play UK-wide.
A complete review of the GAAC’s guidance available is underway, with new Guidance Notes already issued by Ann Bartaby, initially on the subject of Development Consent Orders.
The CAA’s Combined Aerodrome Safeguarding Team (CAST) has issued several pieces of guidance which are recommended reading. The GAAC recommends all aerodromes review their safeguarding plans as a matter of urgency.
GAAC chairman, Matt Wilkins, added, “I very much look forward to working with Simon in his new role as vice chair. The appointment of Ann as Head of Planning ensures that any aerodrome in need of the GAAC’s renowned assistance can be assured that it once again comes from one of the most formidable and expert planning consultants in the UK.”
