Herefordshire Aeroclub Industry News 2nd February 2026
2nd February 2026
Welcome to the Herefordshire Aeroclub Industry News Hub, your regular roundup of key news and updates from the UK General Aviation scene. Read on to find out more…
Industry
Key Changes to Pilot Licensing and Revalidation
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has been active this week with several important updates for pilots. Following the conclusion of the ‘Wave 2’ consultation on pilot licensing and training simplification, the CAA has now published the official response document, outlining the feedback received and the next steps in the process. Pilots are encouraged to review the document to understand the future direction of licensing in the UK. Read more
In a related development, a recent FLYER report has highlighted potential changes to the one-hour revalidation flight with an instructor, suggesting it may evolve into a more formal pass or fail assessment. Read more
Additionally, the CAA has launched a new online service called "Manage Personnel Licences," which will allow pilots and examiners to manage their licensing records and applications digitally. Read more
Microlight Flight Time to Count Towards CPL
In a significant and welcome change for many aspiring commercial pilots, the CAA has confirmed that flying hours in three-axis microlights will now be credited towards the experience requirements for a Commercial Pilot’s Licence (CPL). This move is expected to provide a more accessible and cost-effective route for hour building. Read More
Support for Mooney Aircraft Owners
In a positive development for owners of Mooney aircraft, US-based maintenance and parts specialist LASAR has stepped in to provide continued support for the fleet, ensuring access to parts and expertise following a period of uncertainty for the manufacturer. Read more
Regulation & Safety
Safety Focus: RT Phraseology and Fly-in Procedures
A new GA occurrences report from the CAA highlights the critical importance of correct radio-telephony (RT) phraseology. The report details a runway incursion event caused by a pilot misinterpreting a "hold short of the runway" instruction, reinforcing the need for vigilance and adherence to standard phraseology. Read more
New Met Office Weather Service Announced
The Met Office is set to launch a new integrated aviation weather platform called the Met Office Aeronautical Visualisation Service (MAVIS®). This new service will replace legacy systems from March 24, 2026, and aims to provide a more modern, comprehensive visualisation of weather data for pilots. To support this transition, the Met Office is hosting webinars on 17 February at 11am and 23 February at 3pm. Make sure to sign up - you will need to log into your Met account as normal, and then you’ll need to accept the new T’s and C’s before being taking to Mavis. Read more
“Having only had a limited play - it really is a huge upgrade to the exiting MET service. You can download as an App to your phone, you can pin locations, get spot weather, use map filters etc couldn’t be easier. ”
Shobdon News
GoFly PPG is offering Paramotoring courses at Shobdon
As part of its diversification strategy, Herefordshire Aeroclub (HAC) will be hosting GoFly PPG enabling them to deliver ground school to enthusiastic PPG students.
Powered Paragliding (Paramotoring), is a growing form of aviation sport in the UK and by connecting with this sport and its’ operators, HAC hopes to inspire PPG pilots to progress into fixed wing.
It’s worth noting that GoFly PPG will be conducting all ground handling and flying at a private site outside of the Shobdon ATC. This will allow a safe and controlled airspace for regular shobdon users.
Night Flyout - Thursday 5th Feb.
A reminder that Thursday 5th is the HAC night flyout. Pilots will be taking to the skies heading for Sleap.
These types of flyouts are important for club roots - giving pilots a chance to use their night rating, and share the magic of night flying with other members.
If you are a HAC member that wants to experience it but doesn’t have the ratings - then be sure to check for any spare seats! Read more
As with all these things - the weather gods need to agree and so a backup date of March 5th is in the calendar should it not go ahead.
If you are a regular visitor to or fly from Shobdon, be sure to join the Shobdon Pilots whatsapp group!
Join the Shobdon Pilots Group
Do you fly from Shobdon? Are you learning to fly at Shobdon? Join the Shobdon Pilots WhatsApp group to take part in discussions ranging from the weather to Mach Loop achievements.
If you have aviation news you would like to share, or you would like your aircraft featured on the Industry News header, please email us at events@shobdonairfield.co.uk
