Flying High Again: Flight Restrictions Lifted Over Cutcombe Hill, Somerset

In a move that will have pilots and aviation enthusiasts breathing a sigh of relief, the UK government has lifted emergency flight restrictions over Cutcombe Hill, Somerset. The revocation order was signed by Senior Executive Officer Joe Thompson from the Department for Transport at precisely 15:48 on July 23, 2025, and it came into effect immediately.

What Happened?

Earlier this year, the Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Cutcombe Hill, Somerset) (Emergency) Regulations 2025 imposed strict no-fly zones over the picturesque area of Cutcombe Hill. This was a precautionary measure due to an unspecified emergency situation, which has now been resolved, allowing the skies to reopen.

The Legal Framework

The revocation of these restrictions was executed under the authority of article 239 of the Air Navigation Order 2016. This legal framework grants the Secretary of State the power to restrict or revoke flying permissions in the interest of public safety and order.

Immediate Impact

With the revocation in place, pilots can once again navigate the airspace over Cutcombe Hill without the previous constraints. This change is expected to ease the logistical challenges faced by local aviation operations and potentially boost tourism, as aerial tours and flights can resume their usual routes.

The Official Word

The explanatory note accompanying the regulation assures the public that the emergency situation prompting the initial restrictions has been resolved. This reassurance comes as welcome news to both residents and businesses in the Somerset area who rely on aviation for connectivity and commerce.

As the skies above Cutcombe Hill clear, it marks the end of a brief yet impactful chapter of airspace management in Somerset, demonstrating the government's commitment to responsive and flexible aviation regulation. Keep your eyes on the skies – they're open for business once again!