The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA) will shortly begin a prioritised work programme to update the Civil Aviation Rules — an important step in keeping New Zealand’s aviation system safe, efficient, and fit for the future.
The Rules Update Programme will ensure that the rules remain responsive to technological change, evolving industry needs, and international standards — and the first step is to hear directly from those who work in and around the aviation system.
CAA has launched a short online survey, closing 21 November 2025, that asks the aviation sector to share their views and help shape how the Programme will be designed and which rule changes will be prioritised.
“It’s important that we listen to the sector first,” says Kane Patena, CAA Chief Executive and Director of Civil Aviation.
The Programme aligns with the Government’s Aviation Action Plan, which includes an action for the Ministry of Transport and CAA to develop a two-year, prioritised rolling rule-making programme that is tested with the sector and focused on implementing international standards, improving safety and security, and more effectively enabling innovation.
Kane Patena says the Rules Update Programme builds on the strong technical work that has long underpinned aviation rule-making, but will take a more agile and transparent approach.
“This is not about starting from scratch — it’s about augmenting how we do the work so we can reach our desired state more quickly. We want to make it easier for people to see what’s coming, how priorities are set, and how they can take part.”
The survey is open until 21 November 2025 and can be accessed here:
Have your say: Help shape the future of New Zealand’s aviation rules(external link)
For more information about the Civil Aviation Rules, visit the CAA website rules section.
CAA Media Team
0508 763 222 | media@caa.govt.nz
