GWYN

I am rather surprised (unless I have missed it) to have seen no discussion of the OFCOM proposals for pricing of radio spectrum. I do not know much detail but it seems that it should be a major concern to all airlines operating in the UK particularly in these 'challenging' times.

In short, as I understand, bouyed up by the spectacular windfall sums made by the auction of 3G spectrum a few years ago, OFCOM are now proposing a licensing regime for all use of elements of the radio spectrum. So NATS for example, would have to buy the spectrum to use radio comms, radar, as well as for all the ground-based navaids. Airlines would be charged for use of WX radar and RADALT for example. Indeed OFCOM are already putting prices on the use of these services. See double-udouble-udouble-u.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/aip/fullpdf.pdf Not sure how to go about posting web addresses or how to set up a link.

This seems a very worrying development at a very difficult time for the industry. Indeed I am not convinced that it has really been thought through. The only (cold) comfort for the airline industry is that we are not alone, and it will apply equally to the maritime industry. I am not sure whether the charges will apply to the emergency services but I suspect that they will negotiate an exemption.

This is not something which will go away. Those in power smell another income stream and will not allow it to slip away. However it should be possible for our industry to negotiate to mitigate its impact otherwise it is simply another charge which will have to be passed on to a declining number of passengers.