Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Royal Air Force Cosford Airshow) Regulations 2026: what UK health and safety law means for duty holders and senior leaders
What has changed
The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Royal Air Force Cosford Airshow) Regulations 2026 introduce a framework of flight restrictions around Cosford during the event. The regulations set out the circumstances, times and geographical boundaries within which aircraft movements are controlled or prohibited. Organisations involved in planning, delivering or supporting the Cosford Airshow must ensure awareness of these restrictions and integrate them into their operational planning and safety management processes.
Why it matters
Airspace restrictions directly affect risk profiles for event safety, crowd protection, contractor activities and transport logistics. Non compliance can risk public safety, disrupt operations and trigger regulatory action. The update sits within UK health and safety law and HSE expectations that events identify and control hazards associated with air movements and large crowds.
Who is affected
Event organisers, venue operators, aviation exhibitors, contractors, security teams, emergency services, transport providers and local businesses near the event footprint will be affected by the restrictions and the required controls.
Key duties for employers
Key duties include
- Incorporating airspace restrictions into risk assessments and safety plans
- Engaging with competent persons and regulatory bodies to obtain necessary approvals
- Coordinating with air traffic authorities and the RAF for flight clearance and NOTAMs where applicable
- Updating procedures for contractors and suppliers to ensure compliance with restricted zones and times
- Reviewing insurance, emergency plans and crowd management to reflect aviation related risks
- Providing training and briefing staff on restricted airspace and incident response
- Ensuring governance aligns with ISO 45001 or other certified management systems
Organisations may consider consulting Competent Person support to ensure the right level of oversight for airspace related risks.
Enforcement and sanctions
Authorities responsible for airspace regulation may take enforcement action against breaches. Organisations should anticipate inspections, review findings and implement corrective measures promptly to avoid penalties and reputational damage.
Steps to achieve compliance
- Review the event schedule and identify restricted periods and areas exact boundaries
- Engage with regulatory bodies to obtain necessary clearances and publish NOTAMs if required
- Update risk assessments and control measures to reflect airspace restrictions
- Revisit contractor management, site access, vehicle routes and crowd management to ensure safe separation from restricted zones
- Provide training and documentation to staff and contractors; appoint a competent person to oversee compliance
- Align the health and safety management system with the new requirements, for example through ISO 45001 implementation
For expert guidance, organisations may reference ISO 45001 occupational health and safety management and risk assessment resources as part of their response.
In summary, the Cosford airspace regulation emphasises governance, systematic risk management and timely compliance. By integrating these controls into planning and management systems organisations can protect people, maintain operational resilience and meet UK health and safety law expectations.
