415.The practical effect of this section is that all ASPs, other than those considered to be the first ASP in operation at the aerodrome, must last for a minimum period of 12 months, running in accordance with the financial year. The number of financial years that the ASP covers is a matter for the discretion of the group. However, section 24AH(1)(b) places the SEG under a requirement to keep the contents of an ASP under review and to decide whether and how it should be varied.
416.Special provision is made for the first plan in operation at an airport. In the case of airports to which the new provisions apply on commencement, the requirement is that the ASP will come into force 12 months after the commencement of the provisions.
417.The discretionary power at subsection (5) will allow the Secretary of State to direct that an ASP is to come into force at an alternative date to those generally provided for by the section where a dispute between parties necessitates this.