Back Heathrow has welcomed the government’s review of national airspace as a chance for aviation to “work better” for our local communities.

The review aims to modernise the current airspace design, initially introduced in the 1950s to handle around 200,000 flights per year, to efficiently handle today’s 2.6 million flights. These new ‘skyways’ will help planes climb quicker during take-off and land more smoothly,meaning less noise and pollution for local communities. 

Shafick Emmambokus, a longtime Cranford resident, said:

"Planes currently fly on routes that were introduced 70 years ago. If this redesign means smoother climb-outs, fewer hold patterns, and a quieter experience for communities like mine, I’m all for it. As someone who’s lived by Heathrow for decades, I want to see the airport thrive, but I also want to make sure local communities aren’t adversely affected."

Parmjit Dhanda, Executive Director of Back Heathrow, added:

"This is good news for local communities and for the UK. Modernising our airspace will help cut delays, lower emissions, and improve the passenger experience. Most importantly, it shows that we can make aviation work better for our local communities whilst boosting our economy."

Back Heathrow campaigns for a thriving and sustainable Heathrow Airport whilst representing over 100,000 residents living close to the airport.

-ENDS-

Notes to editors:

• Picture enclosed shows Back Heathrow supporters at a campaign rally in January.