The Aviation Security (Amendment) Regulations 2025

The Aviation Security (Amendment) Regulations 2025, effective June 23, 2025, amend existing aviation security legislation.

Specifically, they remove Chapters 3 (aircraft security) and 7 (air carrier mail and air carrier materials) from Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998.

The regulations apply to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, and were signed by Mike Kane, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Transport.

Arguments For

  • Streamlining aviation security regulations to improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary burdens on airlines and airports.

  • Removing outdated or ineffective security measures, leading to cost savings and a more focused approach to risk management.

  • Aligning UK aviation security regulations with evolving threats and international best practices.

  • Increased focus on risk-based security measures to provide better security at lower cost.

Arguments Against

  • Potential for increased security risks if the removed measures were necessary or effective.

  • Concerns about the adequacy of remaining security measures to effectively address emerging threats.

  • Possible negative impacts on the aviation industry if the amendments disrupt existing security protocols and procedures.

  • Lack of transparency or public consultation may lead to concerns over the hasty removal of safety regulations.

  1. Citation, commencement and extent (1) These Regulations may be cited as the Aviation Security (Amendment) Regulations 2025. (2) These Regulations come into force on 23rd June 2025. (3) These Regulations extend to England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
  1. Amendment of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998 (1) The Annex to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998 of 5 November 2015 laying down detailed measures for the implementation of the basic standards on aviation security is amended as follows. (2) Omit Chapters 3 (aircraft security) and 7 (air carrier mail and air carrier materials).

Signed by authority of the Secretary of State for Transport Mike Kane Parliamentary Under Secretary of State Department for Transport 28th April 2025

Explanatory Note (This note is not part of the Regulations) These Regulations make amendments to legislation in the field of aviation security. Regulation 2 amends Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998 of 5 November 2015 laying down detailed measures for the implementation of the basic standards on aviation security. In particular, the amendments remove current requirements for aircraft security and air carrier mail and air carrier materials. A full impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as no, or no significant, impact on the private, voluntary or public sector is foreseen. An Explanatory Memorandum has been published alongside these Regulations on www.legislation.gov.uk.