What you need to know
The Civil Aviation Act 1990 governs New Zealand’s civil aviation system and sets the overall framework for aviation safety, security and economic regulation. The Airport Authorities Act 1966 gives airport authorities a range of functions and powers to establish and operate airports. The Acts have been amended several times, but have never been substantially revised.
The aviation industry and the government regulatory environment have changed since the Acts came into effect. In 2014 we reviewed the Acts to ensure they were still fit for purpose, and then consulted stakeholders. We used that feedback to draft a new Bill to replace the Acts and in 2019 we consulted on a draft of the Bill. Using that feedback we are now working to make final amendments to prepare the Bill for introduction to Parliament.
The draft Bill is large and complex, containing roughly 400 clauses. It includes a number of proposals to improve the safety, security and efficiency of New Zealand’s civil aviation system. It also contains several minor amendments to modernise and improve the usability of aviation legislation. Subject to government priorities, the Bill may be passed in mid-2021.
The work to date
Participation in CORSIA reconfirmed
The Government reconfirmed the decision to participate in the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) from 2021, and agreed to implement it through the Civil Aviation Bill.
Reviewing submissions and making required amendments
We have worked through submissions on the draft Bill and are now making amendments to prepare the Bill for introduction.
Exposure draft consulted on
Cabinet agreed to release a draft of the Bill to the aviation industry for consultation. The draft Bill was released alongside a commentary document highlighting the main changes.
Drafting new Bill
We are working with the Parliamentary Counsel Office to draft a Bill incorporating decisions made by Cabinet.
NZIER Report, 9 June 2014 - Cross modal risk analysis of substance impairment
To support review and evaluation of impairment regulation across the transport sector, the Ministry commissioned a report to assess the relative risk of fatalities across transport modes, where alcohol and drug impairment are contributing factors in accidents.
Replacement of Act approved
In October 2016, Cabinet agreed that a new Bill would be drafted, making a number of amendments to the current legislation.
Acts reviewed and consulted on
The purpose of the review and consultation was to ensure the Acts were still fit for purpose, given the changes in the aviation sector and regulatory environment since they came into effect.