New laws laid out in Parliament have pledged the largest redesign of the United Kingdom’s airspace since its inception in the 1950s.
The redesign, which is planned to be fully operational by the end of 2025 and run by NATS (En Route) plc (NERL), will see the complete modernisation of the UK’s airspace.
The modernisation looks to introduce new skyways aimed at allowing planes to climb more quickly during take-off, as well as enable smoother descension, in order to reduce noise and air pollution for those living along flight routes.
The plan will also introduce thousands of additional jobs within both the aviation and tourism sectors.
Initially, the UKADS’ initial focus will seek to redesign London’s airspace, with Heathrow’s expected expansion hoped to create over 100,000 extra jobs alone, as well as provide benefits for both airlines and passengers.
Long-term, the UKADS could incorporate flight paths for new technologies such as drones and flying taxis.
Aviation Minister, Mike Kane, said:Redesigned ‘skyways’ will turbocharge growth in the aviation industry, not least by boosting airport expansion plans and supporting job creation, driving millions into the UK economy as part of the Plan for Change.
Modernising our airspace is also one of the simplest ways to help reduce pollution from flying and will set the industry up for a long-term, sustainable future.
The government has stated that the measures are also hoped to aid secure the long-term future of the sector, with plans coming as global forecasts predict a near doubling of passengers and cargo by 2045.
Rob Bishton, Chief Executive of the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said:Modernising our airspace infrastructure is key to enabling the growth of the sector and helping mitigate its impacts.
Our work with government and stakeholders on the creation of the UK Airspace Design Service is another important step in the journey to streamline and improve confidence in the ability to deliver airspace change decisions.
