'Outdated' flight paths serving Glasgow Airport to be 'modernised;

On Monday, air traffic control firm NATS launched a joint consultation with the two airports, which could lead to major route changes for the first time since the 1950s.

If approved, flights to and from Glasgow and Edinburgh would be made more direct, trimming 79,000 nautical miles of flying each year — or three and a half trips around the globe. 

The redesign would trim off excess carbon emissions at the airports.(Image: NQ)

The plans, which would enable continuous climb and descent below 7,000 feet and restructured airspace above, would save 18,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year. 

Lee Boulton, Head of Operations Development at NATS, explained how the system would work. 

He said: “Above 7,000ft, Scottish airspace is among the busiest in the UK, handling over 40% of UK traffic. With demand expected to rise over the next decade, airspace modernisation will help ensure the network can meet future needs by enabling more direct routes while reducing emissions per flight. 

“We encourage stakeholders to share their views through the consultation, so all voices are heard in shaping the proposals.” 

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, said that the project ‘has been needed’ for some time.

The Scotsman reported that the consultation in Edinburgh should have begun at the end of 2023; but procedural delays contributed to a drawn-out process.

Similarly, Glasgow’s consultation should have been launched at the beginning of last year. 

The paper reported that potential changes could include a shorter route between Edinburgh and London via the Firth of Forth; rather than via Manchester. 

Glasgow to London flights average a flight time of one hour and 26 minutes; while Edinburgh to London takes around one hour and 30 minutes.

Dewar added: “The proposals we’re presenting today have been shaped through our engagement and discussion with our local communities and our partners across various industries and sectors. 

“We know this is a complex topic, and the consultation period will allow us to continue that engagement and explain the potential benefits for communities, the airport, and the environment, while maintaining an open dialogue.” 

Mark Beveridge, Managing Director of Glasgow Airport, said that the proposals were shaped through conversations with a ‘range of stakeholders’, adding: “We are pleased to now present them publicly, inviting further input from our communities, their representatives, and other interested parties. 

“Our proposals aim to reduce the total adverse effects of noise from aircraft, improve capacity and minimise delays, and lower emissions per flight through more direct routing. 

Gordon Dewar, chief executive of Edinburgh Airport.(Image: Edinburgh Airport)

“We look forward to engaging in detailed discussions at our upcoming events and webinars over the coming weeks and months.”

Last year, Edinburgh Airport launched a Noise Action Plan aimed at cutting down the impact of flights on local residents.

The scheme, which will run until 2028, uses noise contour maps to identify places where noise is particularly acute.

People living in affected properties may be able to receive noise insulation funding from the airport.

Glasgow Airport operates a similar scheme.

The airport's website reads: "The maximum available amount of NIS grant funding which may be awarded is limited to £5,000.

"Funding will be provided retrospectively. Glasgow Airport will not be able to provide an upfront payment to cover deposits and will only reimburse on completion of works."

The UK Government has expressed support for the modernisation project as part of a wider national strategy.

Keir Mather, Minister for Aviation, Maritime, and Decarbonisation, said the scheme would be fast-tracked 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," he added.  

 “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.” 

Mark Swan, Head of the Airspace Change Organising Group (ACOG), who are tasked with redesigning the system, added: "ACOG has worked closely with Edinburgh, Glasgow, and NATS to integrate their proposals into one vision for modernised airspace, and it’s now important this plan aligns with stakeholder needs.

"Upgrades will enhance the efficiency of this infrastructure, to reduce passenger delays, lower emissions per flight, and prepare for potential future growth.”