Herefordshire Aeroclub Industry News - 30th November 2025
30th November 2025
Welcome to the HAC Aeroclub Industry News Hub, your bi-weekly source for the latest news and updates from the UK General Aviation sector. This newsletter is designed to keep you - our members - informed about key developments in regulations, technology, and opportunities within the GA community.
Regulatory Updates
EASA Issues Precautionary Directive for Airbus A320 Family
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued a precautionary airworthiness directive for some Airbus A320 family aircraft, requiring a software update to address a potential issue with data corruption from intense solar radiation. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has confirmed that some UK airlines are affected and will need to apply the software changes or ground the aircraft from Sunday, 30 November 2025. While this primarily impacts commercial operations, it serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive safety measures and staying current with airworthiness directives.
Source: CAA - Precautionary airworthiness directive
CAA Proposes 4.7% Increase in General Aviation Charges
The CAA has launched its annual consultation on statutory charges, proposing a 4.7% increase for most General Aviation fees for the 2026–27 financial year. The proposed increase, which the CAA states reflects inflation and a contribution to its legislative reform programme, would affect licensing, airworthiness, registration, and oversight fees. The consultation is open until 22 December 2025, and members are encouraged to review the proposals and provide feedback. Key changes include a new three-year renewal option for SERA.6001 speed limitation exemptions and revised pricing for large-scale air displays.
Source: Flyer.co.uk - CAA proposes 4.7% rise
Changes to UK Air Passenger Duty for Business Aviation
The UK government has announced changes to the Air Passenger Duty (APD) that will extend the higher rate to aircraft weighing 5.7 metric tonnes or more, effective from April 2027. This is a significant change from the previously discussed 20-tonne threshold. Aviation industry bodies, including The Air Charter Association and the British Business & General Aviation Association (BBGA), have expressed disappointment, arguing that the change could negatively impact business investment and sustainability efforts in the UK aviation sector.
Industry News
End of an Era: Textron Ceases Production of Beechcraft Bonanza and Baron
After an impressive 80-year production run, Textron Aviation has announced it will cease manufacturing the iconic Beechcraft Bonanza and its twin-engine counterpart, the Baron. The decision marks the end of piston engine aircraft production for Beechcraft, as the company shifts its focus to its turboprop line, including the King Air and the upcoming Denali. Textron has confirmed it will continue to provide full support, including parts and service, for the existing fleet of over 24,000 Bonanza and Baron aircraft worldwide.
Technology News
Trig Avionics Launches New TT23 Transponder
Trig Avionics has unveiled its new TT23 transponder, a smaller and lighter unit that is fully certified as a Class 1, Mode S transponder with ADS-B Out capability. The TT23 is available in two models: a standard version and a TT23G model with an integrated GPS. This new transponder offers a space-saving and weight-efficient solution for GA aircraft, suitable for both VFR and IFR operations.
Source: Flyer.co.uk - Trig TT23
Opportunities & Events
Air League Opens 2026 Flying Scholarship Applications
Aspiring pilots and aviation professionals have a fantastic opportunity to advance their careers as The Air League opens applications for its 2026 Flying, Gliding, and Electric Flying Scholarships on Tuesday, 2 December 2025. The charity offers a wide range of awards, from 3-hour introductory scholarships to 12-hour advanced courses designed to help candidates achieve their first solo or complete their PPL. This is an excellent opportunity for young members of the HAC Aeroclub or their families to get a head start in aviation.
Source: Flyer.co.uk - Air League scholarship
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