End of Flight Restrictions Over Manston: What You Need to Know

Starting 2nd August 2025, the skies over Manston, Ramsgate in Kent will be open once again. The UK government has officially lifted the flight restrictions that were previously in place over this area, meaning aircraft can now fly freely over Manston without the limitations that were enforced earlier this year.

What Were the Restrictions?

Earlier in 2025, regulations were put in place to restrict flying over Manston. These were introduced to manage the risks posed by a large number of aircraft performing high energy manoeuvres in the area, which raised public safety concerns. The restrictions were enforced under the Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Manston) Regulations 2025.

Why the Change?

According to the Secretary of State for Transport, it has been deemed no longer necessary to keep these restrictions in place. The decision follows an assessment by the Civil Aviation Authority and the Department for Transport, concluding that the initial safety concerns have been adequately addressed and that the public interest no longer requires such restrictions.

What Does This Mean for Manston?

From 2nd August 2025, the revocation of these restrictions means that normal flight operations can resume in the vicinity of Manston. This move is expected to ease aviation operations and could potentially lead to increased air traffic in the area, possibly impacting local air travel and logistics.

The Official Word

Karen L Michaels, a representative from the Department for Transport, signed off on this regulatory change. The revocation is a part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that air navigation regulations are both effective and necessary, adapting to current safety needs and public interest demands.

For those interested, the formal revocation falls under the powers granted by article 239 of the Air Navigation Order 2016, as amended.

As skies reopen over Manston, all eyes will be on how this change impacts the local community and aviation industry. Keep an eye on local news outlets for any further developments.