2024 new cost sharing restrictions

Between October and November 2023 the CAA launched a new consultation looking at UK cost sharing flights, specifically around the topic of advertising. This consultation received around 1,800 responses and closed on the 30th November 2023. Despite considerable opposition (nearly 80% saying they did not agree with the changes), the CAA moved forward with the changes, although with some amendments to the original detail.

It is worth mentioning that in November 2021 there was another consultation on the regulations around cost sharing flights. The details of which can be found on the cost sharing flights page. Furthermore, you can find their CRD document (comment response document, the document the CAA produces following a consultation) published in December 2022 which outlines the findings from that first consultation. The proposed new changes as a result are:

• Improving the definition of ‘direct costs’.
• Mandatory for all occupants to pay an equal share of the direct costs.
• Ensuring passengers are completely aware of the risks of flying in a GA aircraft when compared to a commercial aircraft.
• Ensure flights are being carried out by the pilot and not dictated by passengers.
• Plans to remove age limits for cost sharing passengers.

What are the new changes on advertising cost sharing flights?

There are effectively 4 new rules outlined in the changes that concern advertising.

1. The flight must be advertised by the pilot in command of the flight.
2. The advert must include a start location and destination (this can change depending on the weather but must not be determined by the passenger)
3. Date when the pilot is available for the flight
4. Any other information the CAA deems necessary (which likely translates in information around licence, medical information, number of hours and how recent you are.

Essentially, it seems that the overall aim of these changes by the CAA is to stop pilots advertising their availability to fly anyone, from anywhere to anywhere at any time. In doing so, it makes the flight sound more commercial which it obviously is not. Therefore, preventing more nefarious use of cost sharing privileges.

When are these changes coming into effect?

According to CAP2601 (the consultation document) these changes are likely to come into effect from Autumn 2024 although those dates may change.

What are the current cost-sharing rules?

You can find the official rules for cost sharing in a GA guide published by the CAA in the form of CAP1589. Although we recommend reading the CAA guidance on cost-sharing the below serves as a summary based on the documentation mentioned above:

• The costs can be shared between a maximum of 6 occupants.
• Only the direct costs of the flight can be shared, not annual costs (so fuel, rental fee, airfield charges and not maintenance, insurance or similar).
• There is currently not a requirement for the pilot to pay an equal proportion of costs, they must simply make a contribution (although this is likely to change in the near future).
• Cost sharing flights in non-EASA aircraft (Annex II or non-Part 21) is permitted but only within the London and Scottish Flight Information Regions (no cost sharing flights to Europe in non-part 21 aircraft).

Disclaimer: This post was written for reader entertainment only and was up to date at the time of writing. Always seek a qualified flying instructor or qualified professional for more information regarding aircraft and airfield operations, equipment, regulations and aviation legislation.