Scotland leads the way in UK airspace modernisation consultation

Published on: in the Airspace Modernisation, Masterplan category

Blog by Mark Swan, Head of ACOG

I am proud to share we have just hit a significant milestone in the UK’s journey towards a more efficient and sustainable future for aviation – the launch of the Scottish Airspace Modernisation consultation by Edinburgh and Glasgow airports, and NATS.

This consultation is not just a formality, but an invitation for collaboration from the sponsors of the proposed changes who are calling on communities, politicians, and other interested stakeholders to share their feedback.

The proposed changes will modernise an area of approximately 61,000 km² that handles more than 200,000 flights annually. The proposed changes in Scotland will lead to:

  • Significant emissions improvements: By cutting in excess of 18,000 tonnes of CO2e emissions annually, we’re taking a substantial step in reducing aviation’s environmental footprint. This is equivalent to the power used by over 5,000 homes each year.
  • Time savings: More direct routes will cut 30 minutes of flying time daily, shortening the time passengers spend in the air.
  • Operational improvements: With a smoother flow of air traffic, pilots and air traffic controllers will experience reduced workloads supporting  more efficient operations.
  • Reduced delays: A 6% reduction in the number of aircraft required to wait in holding stacks at Edinburgh and Glasgow Airports will translate into fewer delays and a more seamless travel experience for passengers.
  • Noise improvements: Surrounding communities will experience reduced noise burden, thanks to improvements to climb and descent profiles.
  • Airspace efficiency: 600 cubic nautical miles of controlled airspace will be released below 7,000ft – opening the skies for recreational and general aviation, and encouraging innovation and growth in these sectors.

Scotland is paving the way in airspace modernisation – a powerful demonstration of the real-world benefits that transformation can bring. And this is just the beginning. As these advances are scaled up across the busier, more complex regions of UK airspace, the rewards will be even greater.

With Scotland setting the pace for the national programme, ACOG is driving forward plans across Northern England and the West, while our colleagues at NATS prepare to launch the new UK Airspace Design Service to tackle the intricate London area. Each region brings its own challenges and opportunities, and by addressing them together, we’re ensuring a future where the entire UK enjoys better connectivity, fewer delays and a smaller environmental footprint.

For more information, please visit the consultation website www.scottishairspacemodernisation.co.uk