Air collision worries over Coventry Airport expansion 'misplaced'
03.06.06
Fears about aircraft colliding in increasingly busy skies above Warwickshire are misplaced, according to a former Heathrow air traffic controller. Michael Wildin believes Coventry Airport's plan for a new 10,000 sq m terminal capable of handling two million passengers per year will not lead to aeroplanes flying dangerously close together, because technological advances will ensure they are kept sufficiently separate.
Protesters have argued that aircraft flying from Coventry Airport will conflict with those from nearby Birmingham Airport - but Mr Wildin is adamant there is no cause for concern. In evidence given to an inquiry at Leamington town hall into whether the terminal should be built, he said: 'Future air traffic management systems, due for implementation within the timeframe under consideration, are expected to contribute greater capacity while maintaining or even improving safety.'
'Many routes can be safely used within UK airspace through advances in aircrafts' navigation capabilities. These permit them to be separated earlier than at present, which will have a beneficial effect in reducing delays to current traffic levels or permitting more traffic through the system with only current levels of delays.'
The inquiry is due to finish in July. Following John Prescott's change of role, Ruth Kelly, secretary of state for communities and local government, will have the final say on whether the terminal is built.
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