19/02/2026
“Require public consultation before airfields and aerodromes can be closed”.
Government responded:
The Government recognises the importance of General Aviation and aerodromes, but decisions on a site's future use rest with the landowner and planning authorities through the planning system.
The Government recognises the important contribution that General Aviation aerodromes make to the UK’s economy, emergency services, skills base and aviation heritage.
However, most aerodromes and airfields are privately owned and decisions around their future use, including whether to continue aviation operations, are a matter for landowners, subject to the planning system. The National Planning Policy Framework already requires planning authorities to consider the role of airports and airfields in connectivity and economic growth and strategic infrastructure when considering development proposals.
While the Government values the role of General Aviation, it considers that the current balance between private property rights, local decision making, and national aviation policy remains appropriate. We will continue to support general aviation as part of our wider aviation approach.
Department for Transport
Click this link to view the response online:
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/732869?reveal_response=yes
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Thanks,
The Petitions Team
House of Commons
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