Air Traffic Controllers, or ATCOs, are closely involved in every stage of airspace change. Their operational insight is critical from the outset, highlighting risks and challenges early in the process. They then work alongside airspace modernisation teams to develop practical, innovative designs grounded in both data and real-world controlling experience.
Ian Jopson, Sustainability Director at NATS reflects on Sustainable Skies World Summit 2026, where he presented to industry attendees on the role airspace modernisation and non-CO₂ contribute to shaping the future of sustainable air travel.
FRA is a cornerstone of the UK’s Airspace Modernisation Strategy and one of several operational transformations being deployed by NATS to update the airspace.
Changing the UK’s airspace is a meticulous process that requires significant planning. It cannot be done quickly, and every step is shaped by requirements from the Department for Transport (DfT) and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). These regulations ensure that changes remain safe and fair, while supporting wider sector goals such as emissions reduction, management of noise impact and capacity growth.
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.
In this blog, Rich Crooks, Manager Airspace Delivery, explains how NATS is progressing the path to modernise UK airspace.
With the operational “O” date for West Airspace Deployment (West) only one week away (the day the airspace changes go live), you might be wondering what actually happens on the day.
We’re now less than a month away from West Airspace Deployment (West) and we are busy finalising preparations for implementation.
Over the past two years, our Operational Service Enhancement Programme (OSEP) has deployed six tranches of change to airspace across the country, enabling some 30,000 tonnes of CO2 savings annually throughout the European and UK network, equivalent to the emissions from the energy usage of over 8,000 homes.
