2.3 Appendix 4 analyses the possible risks to aviation safety that might arise under the PPP, and whether safeguards exist against those risks being realised. We compiled this analysis in consultation with the Civil Aviation Authority, the safety regulator of NATS and of civil aviation in the UK.
2.4 In general, we found that the previous arrangements for managing safety-related risks had been continued into the PPP, and augmented by additional safeguards. The main additions to safety risk management under the PPP are:
■ Complete separation of ownership between the service provider (NATS) and its safety regulator (the Civil Aviation Authority);
■ NATS' Business Plans for its regulated sector require the approval of the CAA in respect of its form, scope and level of detail. All of NATS' Business Plans require the approval of its shareholders (the Airline Group and the Department); and
■ During 2002/3, the safety regulator will carry out audits on the safety performance of NATS.