The CAA is the UK's specialist aviation regulator. Its specific responsibilities include Air Safety, Economic Regulation, Airspace Regulation, Consumer Protection and Environmental Research & Consultancy. The CAA:

• Ensures that UK civil aviation standards are set and achieved (SRG)
• Regulates airlines, airports and National Air Traffic Services economic activities and encourages a diverse and competitive industry (ERG)
• Manages the UK’s principal travel protection scheme, the Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (ATOL) scheme, licenses UK airlines and manages consumer issues (CPG)
• Brings civil and military interests together to ensure that the airspace needs of all users are met as equitably as possible (DAP).

In addition, the CAA advises the Government on aviation issues, represents consumer interests, conducts economic and scientific research, produces statistical data and provides specialist services. The UK Government requires that the CAA’s costs are met entirely from its charges on those whom it regulates. Unlike many countries, including the other JAA member states, there is no direct Government funding of the CAA’s work.