Project Overview
Permit workflow automation helped the Civil Aviation Authority tackle inefficiencies in issuing ‘Permits to Fly’, where manual PDF forms created delays and errors. By implementing a bespoke .NET solution, the process was digitised end-to-end, from form completion to validation and approvals.
This modernised approach improved accuracy and efficiency across the process, showcasing Transparity’s expertise in App Innovation and creating a scalable digital system that streamlined regulatory workflows.
The Challenge
As part of its remit to regulate aviation and provide air traffic services in the UK, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issues ‘Permits to Fly’ to small, non-commercial aircraft such as microlights and gyroplanes, based on a set of weight and airworthiness rules.
Previously, this was managed entirely manually: the aircraft owner would download and complete a PDF from the CAA website, then scan and return it by email. The data was then validated by hand and entered into a database before the permit could be issued – a costly, time-consuming process. The CAA had no in-house resource to overhaul the system, and needed to get the project started quickly.
The CAA’s usual supplier was unable to source the right person – an expert .NET resource – within the timeframe required, so the CAA approached Transparity instead. It needed someone with a broad but specific set of technical competencies, ready to start immediately.
The Solution
Transparity was able to identify and place the ideal consultant without delay. The brief was to design and build a .NET application covering the whole process end-to-end – allowing users to log in or register, answer a set of tailored questions that would trigger the PDF for completion by email, validate the form digitally, and print the permit.
Transparity’s consultant, an expert .NET resource from its custom software development practice, worked in tandem with the CAA’s senior management team at their offices – starting with a fact-finding exercise to develop the specification, then designing and building an application loosely based on a system already in use elsewhere in the organisation.
The role also involved running show-and-tell sessions and working through the analytical issues that arose while collecting and validating the data required to issue a ‘Permit to Fly’.
The Outcome
Faster, more accurate permitting
Digitising the process end-to-end – from form completion to validation and approval – has improved both the accuracy and efficiency of issuing Permits to Fly, replacing a slow, error-prone paper-based workflow.
Staff freed up for higher-value work
Successfully completing the project has let the CAA redirect staff and resources that were previously tied up in manual processing towards other areas of the business.
A consultant embedded as part of the team
Transparity’s consultant met every technical requirement with the immediacy the CAA needed, while working on-site, answering questions and problem-solving as issues arose – quickly becoming a valued member of the team and driving the project forward.
An ongoing relationship
What started as a single, time-critical placement has developed into an ongoing relationship, with Transparity going on to support further development work across the organisation.
