Heathrow runway trial takes off tomorrow
31.10.11
A trail of mixed use of both Heathrow runways that could slash flight delays will get underway tomorrow. The first of a two-part operational freedom trial will test new measures aimed at delivering benefits to passengers, the local community, and the environment. It will be carried out over winter, with a second trail next summer.
The aim of the change is to improve take-off and landing times, reducing aircraft delays where planes are often forced to circle the skies due to limited landing availability, or where busy terminals mean that planes are often late departing the airport resulting in flights regularly leaving after 23:00, despite an earlier scheduled take off time.
The first trial will run from November 1 to February 29, and the second from July 1, to September 30. A spokesman for BAA said: ‘The trial will look at whether new procedures can be used to bring benefits to the local community through less late-running flights; to passengers, by providing a more punctual service; and to the environment, by reducing aircraft stacking times and reducing emissions. This trial will not mean an increase in the number of flights operating in to or out of Heathrow.’
Once the trial is over the CAA will review the data collected, and a full government consultation with local communities will take place next year before any final decision is made on the permanent use of the procedures.
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