Third Country Operators (UK- Part TCO) Requirement
Regulation 452/2014 requires all Third Country Operators to hold a 'UK -Part-TCO', issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) prior to undertaking any commercial flight to, from or within the United Kingdom and associated areas.
With effect from 1 January 2023 all Third Country Operators that wish to undertake such commercial services must hold a full UK Part TCO. We no longer recognise EASA TCO approvals.
A list of UK Part TCO holders can be found on this page.
Application Process
If you wish to apply for a UK TCO please email TCO@caa.co.uk for an application form.
Please note that in addition to a UK-Part TCO any commercial operations to the UK will also require a Foreign Carrier Permit issued by us.
If you have any queries in relation to the above then please do not hesitate to contact us by email.
Refusal of access to United Kingdom Airspace
The UK no longer follows EU Regulations and decisions as of 1 January 2021.
Under the terms of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, the UK will retain in domestic law, the EU Air Safety List Regulation (Regulation (EC) No 2111/2005). The EU Air Safety List formed the basis of the UK’s own Air Safety List and Third Country Operator approval systems of removing and adding air carriers and States for failing to meet internationally agreed safety standards.
The Air Safety List has been established to inform and protect UK citizens wherever they are in the world and act as a deterrent from poor safety performance. Ensuring the safety of air carriers operating to the United Kingdom and encouraging compliance with internationally recognised and agreed safety standards is key to preserving global aviation safety.
States and air carriers wishing to amend or be removed from the UK Air Safety List must demonstrate to the UK’s satisfaction compliance with international safety standards. This is likely to require the provision of evidence, on-site assessments, and technical hearings.
A fair and transparent process has been developed which will allow States and air carriers to approach the UK to amend the UK Air Safety List.