Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to help tackle strategic issues affecting domestic air travel, including (a) airport capacity and regional connectivity, (b) the resilience and availability of aircraft, (c) the regulation and integration of emerging aviation technologies and (d) operational challenges affecting Border Force at UK airports.

The Government recognises the vital role of domestic aviation in supporting economic growth and regional connectivity. The sector operates largely on a commercial basis, with airports and airlines best placed to determine capacity and routes. It is also the responsibility of industry to manage demand, including availability of aircraft, and ensure appropriate contingency plans are in place. We support this through a policy framework that enables sustainable growth, including the targeted use of Public Service Obligations where there is a clear case, and continue to engage closely with industry, including through the Aviation Council, to ensure policy reflects operational realities and supports connectivity across the UK.

We continue to engage with the Home Office and Border Force on planning ahead of the summer holiday period to ensure a smooth passenger experience over the summer, particularly given increased demand.

Finally, the Government is delivering the Future of Flight Programme in partnership with industry and the Civil Aviation Authority. This is putting in place the regulatory frameworks, standards and digital systems needed to safely integrate emerging aviation technologies, including drones and advanced air mobility, into UK airspace.