The changes will enable the largest redesign of UK airspace flight paths since it was first formed in the 1950s, when there were only around 200,000 flights per year
Holidaymakers will enjoy quicker flights and fewer delays under major plans to open up new and more direct routes.
The changes, laid in Parliament today, will enable the largest redesign of UK airspace flight paths since it was first formed in the 1950s, when there were only around 200,000 flights per year, compared to 2.7 million in 2024.
The plans will help planes avoid having to circle in the sky while waiting to land, reducing delays and emissions per flight.
Redesigned ‘skyways’ could also allow planes to climb quicker during take-off and descend more smoothly, reducing noise and air pollution for residents who live along flight routes.
The new UK Airspace Design Service (UKADS), which will be delivered by NATS (En Route) plc, will be fully operational by the end of this year. It will initially focus on redesigning London’s airspace.
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The Department for Transport said the redesign will support thousands of jobs in the aviation and tourism sectors.
More than 100,000 extra jobs are expected to be created through the expansion at Heathrow alone.
Over a longer timeframe, the UKADS could design routes that support flight paths for new and emerging technologies such as drones and flying taxis.
In April, the Government announced £20million to launch new flight technologies, with ministers suggesting airborne taxis and commercial drones could take flight as soon as 2028. Last week marked a step towards the 2028 ambition after the first British flying taxi completed its first ever flight.
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.
“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.”
Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK, said: “Modernising UK airspace is long overdue and these changes will help to speed up a programme that will provide tangible reforms, from a reduction in delays, improved resilience and lower carbon emissions.”
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