Stansted starts initial phase of national airspace upgrade

LONDON - As part of UK Airspace Modernisation Programme, London Stansted has begun the process of re-designing the network of corridors and flightpaths that aircraft use when travelling to and from the airport. Government requested all airports to review how new technology can best be used to make airspace use more efficient.

Like the road and rail networks, airspace is a critical part of the UK’s national infrastructure but much of its design has remained unchanged since the 1950s.

In addition, new technology such as satellite navigation systems is now available which has the potential to make more efficient use of airspace, helping to reduce the need for stacking and delays and helping to cut emissions.

All UK airports are responsible for reviewing their operations up to an altitude of 7,000 feet, with the UK’s national air traffic service provider, NATS, looking at aircraft routings above that altitude. The process is being overseen by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

This week, Stansted 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.

Examples include whether it is "better to concentrate flights over one area or spread them out more evenly", according to the airport, "and how it should account for other airspace users such as gliders and drones". A full public consultation on Stansted’s future airspace design will begin in 2021.