Scottish Airspace Modernisation is a coordinated change proposal in Scotland between Edinburgh Airport, Glasgow Airport and NATS.
Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow Airport are both responsible for the modernisation of their departure and arrival routes below 7,000ft, and NATS is responsible for connecting these routes into the higher-level airspace network above.
It is part of a nationwide programme, required by Government policy and the Civil Aviation Authority’s Airspace Modernisation Strategy, to enable airspace quicker, quieter and cleaner flights within the UK.
Keir Mather, Minister for Aviation, Maritime, and Decarbonisation, said: “We are fast-tracking airspace modernisation to deliver more reliable, efficient, and greener flights, while giving passengers greater choice and a better experience.
“It is fantastic to see Scottish airports and NATS reach this important milestone.
“Airports across the UK will be following in Scotland’s footsteps as we drive forward our plans for a modern aviation sector to support jobs, grow the economy and improve passenger experiences.”
The proposed changes focus on an area of approximately 61,000 km² that handles more than 200,000 flights annually.
Modernising will enable a reduction of 18,000 tonnes of CO2e each year from deployment – approximately the emissions from the energy used by 5,000 households.
More direct routing will save 79,000 nautical miles of flying a year – equivalent to flying 3.5 times around the world, or roughly 30 minutes of flight time saved each day.
