The UK is to set up a new body to redesign the country’s airspace to reduce delays, emissions and noise pollution.
The UK Airspace Design Service will consist of a team of aviation experts who will work with UK airports to redesign the airspace, first for London and then the rest of the country.
A consultation, which opens today and will run until 17 December was launched today for those in the ATC sector, airports and airspace users to give their views on the concept of the Airspace Design Service, its scope, funding and implementation.
UK airspace experienced some of its busiest days on record with over 8,239 flights during July. An average of 2.6 million aircraft fly through the UK every year,
The UK Airspace Design Service is part of a government modernisation plan for the UK’s air traffic control system launched earlier this year. The plan aims to modernise the UK’s airspace using the latest technology to meet demand and pave the way for the incorporation of drones and spacecraft.
Mike Kane, the UK’s Minister for Aviation, said: “UK airspace is one of the nation’s biggest invisible assets, but it’s been stuck in the past – a 1950s pilot would find that little has changed.
“Our once-in-a-generation creation of a UK Airspace Design Service will not only drive forward airspace modernisation and create a system that’s fit for the future, but it will help create quicker routes, ease delays, and reduce harmful emissions - making air travel a better experience for all.”
By enabling aircraft to use advanced navigation technologies, the UK Airspace Design Service will plan for the more efficient use of airspace, including the use of continuous climb and descent profiles, and a reduced need to hold aircraft. It aims to create a holistic and integrated design, simplifying the process and bureaucracy in coordination with airports, airlines and ANSPs to deliver benefits for the passenger and local communities impacted by aviation.
London airspace is the busiest and most congested in the UK and delays in London often have a knock-on effect for the rest of the UK.
Martin Rolfe, CEO of NATS, said: “Any initiative that can help speed up the modernisation programme for UK airspace is very welcome, especially in London and the southeast. It is some of the busiest and most complex airspace in the world with take-offs and landings at five major airports and several smaller ones.
“This is the next big step in modernising UK airspace following the work we have already completed in other parts of the country and we welcome the Government’s consultation on how best to deliver it.”