CAA on General Aviation

This episode looks at stall and spin awareness in General Aviation; how stall and spin risks affect all pilots, not just aerobatic flying, and why loss of control remains a major safety issue.
The discussion emphasises that early avoidance is critical, while well-practised, decisive recovery and structured aerobatics training can significantly improve pilot safety, confidence, and control.
More information on Loss of Control and Aerobatics in Light Aircraft can be found in our Safety Sense Leaflets.
Make sure you’re signed up to our Skywise alerts to be informed when we publish new and updated safety materials.

In this episode, we hear from organisers, pilots, regulators and industry experts from across the air display community.
Recorded at the CAA’s Air Display Symposium earlier this year, we speak to the people who make air displays happen, exploring the challenges, innovations and priorities, shaping this year's program, and getting a behind the scenes look at how the industry is working together to deliver safe, exciting events for audiences across the UK.
For more information about the CAA’s role in air displays, visit our website:
Flying displays and Special events | UK Civil Aviation Authority

This episode highlights two key safety topics for GA pilots: trim runaways and fuel contamination.
We explore how to recognise the early signs of a trim runaway, the immediate actions pilots should take, and why staying ahead of the problem is critical.
We then cover the fundamentals of correct fuel sampling, including common sources of contamination, how to take reliable samples, and what to do if the fuel doesn’t look right.
With more pilots returning to the skies as the weather improves, this episode offers practical reminders to help keep every flight safe.
More information on trim runaways and fuel contamination can be found on our website at: Safety Topics | UK Civil Aviation Authority.
Make sure you’re signed up to our Skywise alerts to be informed when we publish new and updated safety materials.

In March 2024, we launched a 10 week consultation on phase two of the general aviation pilot licensing and training simplification project.
In September we released the consultation response documents covering aeroplanes, balloons, gyroplanes, helicopters and sailplanes.
In this episode we’re joined by Ed Bellamy from our General Aviation Unit, who will be providing a helpful overview of the consultation feedback and next steps.
CAP3032A: General Aviation Pilot Licensing Review Phase 2: Aeroplanes Consultation Response Document
CAP3032E: General Aviation Pilot Licensing Review Phase 2: Helicopter Consultation Response Document
CAP3032F: General Aviation Pilot Licensing Review Phase 2: Sailplanes Consultation Response Document
CAP3032G: General Aviation Pilot Licensing Review Phase 2: Gyroplanes Consultation Response Document

Spring is now upon us and it’s time to start thinking about returning to flying! If you’ve had the winter off, we’re here to guide you through the important things to consider before getting back into your aircraft.
For this episode we’re joined by James Shipp and Tom Gravett from the CAA General Aviation Unit to discuss pilot currency, aircraft airworthiness and airfield conditions.
If you have any feedback or suggestions for areas that you’d like us to cover in this podcast, please get in touch at gapodcast@caa.co.uk.
Related information
Safety Animation – Returning to flying, pre flight checklist
Safety Animation – Loss of Control: Stall and Spin Awareness
Safety Animation – Flying in Cloud
The Skyway Code
Safety Sense Leaflet - Care of Passengers
Safety Sense Leaflet – Loss of Control: Stall and Spin Awareness
Clued Up – Weight and Balance
Astral Aviation Consulting Workshop – Skill Fade