Herefordshire Aeroclub Industry News 8th December 2025
8th December 2025
Welcome to the HAC Aeroclub Industry News Hub, your weekly roundup of key news and updates from the UK General Aviation scene. This newsletter is designed to keep our members informed about the latest developments in regulations, technology, and community news that matters to GA pilots.
Industry
Urgent Call to Action: Save Popham Airfield
Popham Airfield, a cherished hub for many in the GA community, is under imminent threat from a new local development plan. The Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council's Draft Local Plan, released on November 28th, proposes the construction of 4,250 houses directly on the airfield site. An urgent public consultation is now underway, running until January 23rd, 2026. The local community and aviation enthusiasts are being urged to submit their objections to the council. The "Popham Airfield Matters" campaign group has been established to coordinate the response and provides resources to help individuals make their voices heard.
Source: AOPA UK
Deadline Looms for Halon Fire Extinguisher Replacement
A critical deadline is approaching for all UK aircraft owners. Under UK environmental regulations, all handheld fire extinguishers containing Halon 1211 and Halon 2402 must be removed from aircraft cabins and crew compartments by December 31, 2025. This is part of the UK's commitment to phasing out ozone-depleting substances. While the CAA has clarified that non-compliance is an environmental issue and will not in itself render an aircraft unairworthy, owners are strongly encouraged to comply. The CAA has released guidance (UK-CM-CS-013) on suitable replacements, such as Halotron BrX clean agent extinguishers. AOPA UK is actively working with the CAA to find a low-cost, proportionate solution for the GA community.
Source: AOPA UK
Safety Focus
AAIB Investigates Crash Caused by 3D-Printed Part Failure
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has released its report on the crash of a Cozy Mk IV homebuilt aircraft (G-BYLZ) at Gloucestershire Airport. The investigation concluded that the failure of a 3D-printed part within the engine's induction system led to a loss of power on final approach. In response, the Light Aircraft Association (LAA) has announced it will issue an "LAA Alert" to all its inspectors regarding the use of 3D-printed components and will update its guidance for permit-to-fly renewals. This incident raises important questions about the use and certification of 3D-printed parts in amateur-built aircraft.
Source: Flyer.co.uk
Regulation Updates
New CAA General Aviation Strategy Published
The UK Civil Aviation Authority has published its new strategy for General Aviation. The document outlines the regulator's vision for a "safe, innovative, and sustainable" GA sector. HAC will be reviewing the strategy's implications for members.
Source: CAA
Community & Opportunities
FLYER Magazine's Free Landings for December
For those that are FLYER Magazine members - they are offering their Club members a festive treat with free landings at several airfields across the UK during December. This popular benefit provides a great incentive for pilots to get out and fly during the holiday season. Here are Decembers airfields:
Caernarfon
Tibenham
Barton
Yatesbury
Sandown (50% fee)
Source: Flyer.co.uk
