Public Sector Air Capability

2026-11-03

The Cabinet Office is conducting this Preliminary Market Engagement (PME) to gather industry insights and inform the aviation strategy for Public Sector Air Capability. This is an information gathering initiative and does not constitute a commitment to a future procurement. The Cabinet Office is seeking to engage with the market regarding the provision of a dedicated wet lease transport aircraft service. A key priority for this engagement is assessing the market's ability to mobilise and commence full service delivery from 01 April 2027. The service providers must meet the following criteria: Operator Licensing - must hold a valid UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Type A Operating Licence. Operational Authority - must maintain a Worldwide Air Operator Certificate (AOC) with clearance for global passenger operations. ETOPS: The aircraft and operator must be ETOPS 180 certified (or higher). In-Flight Connectivity: The aircraft must be equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity for passenger use. Aircraft Specification: Narrow-Body (Single Aisle) type. Mission Performance: The aircraft must have a minimum range capability of 3,900nm while carrying a Payload of 5,500kg. This performance must be guaranteed against 85% annual probability headwinds to ensure year-round, non-stop operational viability. All interested parties will be required to sign a mandatory Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). Successful execution of the NDA will grant access to the full technical dossier and invitations to the capability specific engagement sessions.

United Kingdom (UK)

2026-04-02