Outdated UK airspace set for biggest change in history as it’s ‘stuck in 1950s’

The UK is set for the biggest overhaul in history of its now outdated airspace.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced plans to modernise a system that has been in place since the 1950s.

The move aims to improve the efficiency of air travel, reduce delays, cut emissions and lower noise pollution. 

The DfT has also launched a consultation to establish the UK Airspace Design Service (UKADS), which will be responsible for leading this transformation and coordinating changes with UK airports.

The Minister for Aviation Mike Kane said: “UK airspace is one of the nation’s biggest invisible assets, but it’s been stuck in the past – a 1950s pilot would find that little has changed.”

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He added: “Our once-in-a-generation creation of a UK Airspace Design Service will not only drive forward airspace modernisation and create a system that’s fit for the future, but it will help create quicker routes, ease delays, and reduce harmful emissions – making air travel a better experience for all.”

The modernisation will begin with London’s airspace and extend across the country. 

With more than 2.6 million aircraft flights annually, the UK’s outdated airspace system requires a major update to handle new technologies like drones and space travel.

Karen Dee, the Chief Executive of AirportsUK, welcomed the initiative, saying: “By establishing the UK Airspace Design Service, the government is recognising the strategic nature of our skies and the routes that aircraft fly. 

“This marks a positive step forward that will give the whole process momentum and meet airports’ desire to see airspace modernisation delivered as quickly as possible.”

The Government’s consultation is crucial for finalising the structure and scope of UKADS. 

It aims to establish an initial operating model (UKADS1) focusing on London’s complex airspace and priority airspace changes.

UKADS2, a more permanent body, could eventually be responsible for all airspace design changes across the UK.

The airspace modernisation is expected to benefit UK consumers by improving system capacity and resilience to disruptions, according to the DfT. 

It will also support the UK’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

“This project is about airspace design,” the Government explained in its consultation document. 

It added: “We are not planning to fundamentally change who manages the airspace or initiates airspace changes.”

The Government has launched a consultation on any proposed changes.