3.—(1) A person is an “aircraft operator” in relation to each calendar year from 1st January 2010 where in respect of that calendar year that person—
(a)is a UK operator; and
(b)performs an aviation activity (or is deemed to perform an aviation activity in accordance with paragraph (5)).
(2) Where the regulator cannot identify the UK operator that performed an aviation activity it may, where the owner of the aircraft at the time it was used to perform the activity (“the owner”) is a UK operator, serve a notice on the owner.
(3) A notice under paragraph (2) must—
(a)where this information is available to the regulator, specify the dates, times and locations of the activity;
(b)be accompanied by such evidence relevant to the activity as the regulator considers appropriate; and
(c)require the owner to inform the regulator of the identity of the person who performed the activity, by the deadline specified in the notice.
(4) The deadline specified in a notice given under paragraph (2) may be extended by the regulator.
(5) Where the owner does not comply with a notice served under paragraph (2) by the deadline as so specified or extended, the owner is, following that deadline, deemed to be the person that performed the aviation activity.