Now the results are in from the recent consultation on NATS OpenAir, we are moving into the next phase of our project aimed at designing a digital data backbone to pave the way to an integrated UK airspace of the future.

On the latest episode of Altitude, our expert panel explored the progress made in aviation sustainability and the challenges that remain. Their insights revealed a mix of optimism, determination, and a clear commitment to a more sustainable future. The key question: are we doing enough to shift the trajectory?

Our series of data visualisation videos showcase the complex role of air traffic control and the impressive work our controllers do to juggle the demands and challenges of our skies every day.

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.  

Friday 26 July and all eyes were on Paris for the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympics. Our eyes were on the skies, though, where a huge 80-mile exclusion zone around the French capital kicked in at 4.30pm and stayed in place till 10pm. For neighbouring countries like the UK this meant a massive amount of planning for the air traffic likely to reroute through our airspace.

Development of NATS OpenAir, our proposal for a future integrated airspace management system, continues apace.

Two Austrian Red Bull skydivers have completed the ultimate wingsuit flight, jumping from a helicopter at 3,000ft over London, before gliding through the famous landmark Tower Bridge and landing on pontoons. Jonathan Colthart explains how we played a part in this world first event.

The last couple of weeks have seen a strong Jet Stream and some rapid transatlantic crossings. That’s prompted some people to wonder if those flights have actually been flying faster than the speed of sound and going super-sonic.

In this blog, Rich Crooks, Manager Airspace Delivery, explains how NATS is progressing the path to modernise UK airspace.