Department of Transport clarifies GA rules during lockdown

General Aviation Generic

As the UK enters a new phase of lockdown many General Aviation pilots have queried whether they are still allowed to fly their aircraft, the short answer is no, with some specific exceptions.

What you can do

  • Carry out Engine Health and Maintenance Flights, but only where there is a critical safety requirement to do so and they should wherever possible start and end at the same airfield.
  • Flying Schools can carry on professional training as this is classed as work. But only if social distancing can be maintained.
  • You can fly GA aircraft for work purposes provided that work can not be done from home.

Before any flight under the above exemptions, you must carry out a coronavirus risk assessment.

What you cant do

  • Fly recreationally.
  • Fly with others where social distancing cannot be maintained.
  • Travel unnecessarily to the airfield.