London Stansted has begun redesigning its flightpaths to improve capacity after Heathrow’s bid for a new runway was denied last week.
As part of the UK’s airspace modernisation program, all airports must review their operations up to an altitude of 7,000 feet, with the UK’s national air traffic service responsible for aircraft at higher altitudes.
The British government has also requested airports review how new technology can make the airspace they use more efficient.
With London Heathrow Airport’s bid for a third runway was scuttled after 10 years due to a failure to take into consideration climate change targets, the UK needs to address the way it uses its airspace to ensure efficiency.
Nick Millar, operations director at London Stansted, said, “When delays start to build up on our roads or rail network, the impact it can have on the ground is all too obvious.
“It’s easy to forget that we have a similar network in the sky, which our airlines and other airspace users rely on to get from A to B.
“This upgrade of the UK’s airspace is long overdue and will help make flying much more efficient and environmentally friendly.”
This week, the airport will host a series of focus groups including members of the public, aviation industry, local businesses, elected representatives, special interest groups, national organisations and community representatives who will be providing their views on the broad principles that Stansted should follow when designing any change to its airspace.
“This initial phase will help us frame the way we develop our proposals, which will be subject to full public consultation next year. The views of stakeholders and residents are central to this process, and anybody who wishes to take part is welcome to submit their views,” Millar said.
A full public consultation on Stansted’s future airspace design will begin in 2021.
Report by Dylan Nicolson
