In the latest episode of Altitude, Kelly Stone MBE, Heathrow Head of Operations and Jeannine Fernandes, NATS Heathrow Air Traffic Coordinator, joined our host Ady Dolan for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of Europe’s busiest airport and how the centre is evolving to meet future demands.

With just two weeks to go until the close of our OpenAir consultation, here we answer a few of your most frequently asked questions about the proposals we believe could pave the way to an integrated UK airspace of the future. The NATS OpenAir proposition is our response to the challenge of meeting future demand […]

Contrails, the wispy white streaks that sometimes form behind aircraft, have long been a subject of interest – sparking debates about their environmental impact, their role in climate change, and even fuelling conspiracy theories.

For the current Caelus flights, we are trialling a different use of airspace to ensure it is robust enough to withstand the traffic of today as well as that of the future. This time around, we are incorporating a Temporary Segregated Area (TSA), which means Aberdeen airport can use the airspace safely and flexibly while minimising possible disruption to traditional traffic.  

To celebrate Career Development Month, our Young Professionals Network (YPN) hosted a ‘Knowledge Fair’ to showcase different parts of the business to our colleagues. The fair was an interactive learning opportunity that gave teams a chance to share their latest projects, connect with likeminded individuals and build their networks.

Last week, Hong Kong International Airport’s operation successfully became a Three-Runway System (3RS) for the first time. A significant milestone for the Airport City and a sign – if any were needed – that aviation in Asia Pacific is set to grow at pace.

As part of our contribution towards the Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) programme, we have been working on the next phase of the Increased Flexibility in Air Traffic Controller (ATCO) Validations (IFAV) project.

Our Research and Development (R&D) department has just hosted a fantastic showcase event bringing together curious minds from across the business to showcase, explore and collaborate on the current R&D projects our teams are undertaking.

With the accelerating growth of the uncrewed and advanced air mobility sectors, the global aviation landscape is poised for significant change. More and more new and diverse airspace users are lining up for access to our skies, supported by a multitude of air traffic service providers.

During the Spring an impressive 3D simulator was built, configured, assured, and then put to good use alongside similar new systems at Aberdeen and Southampton airports. This was then followed by two new systems entering operational service within 24 hours in early November, almost certainly a first for the unit since its original fit-out back in 1966.