CAA Dangerous Goods Training Approval Update

Upcoming changes to CAP 483

The primary purpose of the meeting was to review proposed revisions to CAP 483 — the legislative document that defines how organisations gain and maintain approval to deliver approved Dangerous Goods by Air training.

Since formal approval is essential for any organisation offering dangerous goods by air training, changes to CAP 483 directly affect how dangerous goods courses are delivered.

Without effective DG by air training, individuals cannot legally ship dangerous goods by air, and cargo operations cannot function.

For us at Peter East Associates, the leading dangerous goods by air training provider to freight forwarders, shippers, airlines, and ground handlers, ongoing compliance with CAP 483 is fundamental.

What CAP 483 covers

CAP 483 establishes requirements that directly shape CAA Dangerous Goods by Air training courses, including:

• CAA training approval and renewal processes
• Training content for compliant DG by Air training
• Instructor competency for dangerous goods by air training
• Record-keeping and audit requirements
• Ongoing compliance standards for approved training organisations

These requirements underpin how DG by Air training courses are structured, delivered, assessed, and documented.

Why this matters for Dangerous Goods by Air training providers

For many attendees, this was the first opportunity in several years to engage directly with the CAA. While industry members may be familiar with regulatory engagement in other transport modes, dangerous goods by air training uniquely requires CAA approval.

This makes regular engagement with the CAA particularly important for organisations such as Peter East Associates.

A more accessible and engaged CAA approach to training oversight

A notable theme throughout the meeting was the evolution of the CAA’s approach to Dangerous Goods by Air training oversight. CAA training approvals and surveillance are now managed fully in-house by a dedicated CAA team. This has resulted in:

• quicker responses to training-related queries
• improved understanding of the practical realities of DG by Air training delivery

The meeting reflected this shift, fostering a constructive two-way discussion focused on improving the consistency and clarity of CAA Approved Dangerous Goods Training requirements.

Looking ahead: strengthening CAA Dangerous Goods by Air training

One of the most positive outcomes of the meeting was the expectation of improved, ongoing communication between the CAA and Dangerous Goods by Air training providers.

For Peter East Associates, this supports:

• continued compliance with CAA training approval requirements,
• timely updates to DG by Air training courses, and
• clear expectations for instructors and delegates.

Acknowledgements

Thank you to Samuel Roberts, Cara Ruzicka & Des Nelhams for their informative presentations, and Helen North, Rachel Sveinsson, and Farah Mustafa for their support in making the day a success.