‘We’re modernising’ - Manchester Airport could benefit from reforms to outdated 1950s flight path process

The CAA has launched a consultation on plans to simplify how UK airports, including Manchester, request changes to airspace use. The regulator is proposing to cut the current seven-step process down to four steps by removing certain requirements — such as compiling a longlist of options and consulting at every stage in all cases.

The aim is to streamline decision-making while maintaining a process that remains “transparent and evidence-based,” according to the CAA. Much of the UK’s airspace structure dates back to the 1950s, a time when aircraft volumes were lower and routes were guided by ground-based beacons.

Airports now seek permission from the CAA to alter flight paths to improve efficiency, reduce emissions, increase capacity, or enhance safety. Manchester Airport is among a number of regional airports — including Bristol, Glasgow and Edinburgh — that have long been part of national discussions on airspace reform.

While the London area receives the majority of UK flights and is often prioritised, airports like Bristol stand to benefit from a more flexible system that enables quicker approval of necessary changes.

The planned reforms come ahead of the creation of a new UK Airspace Design Service, due to be in place by the end of the year. The service will be tasked with helping to design more efficient flight routes across the country.

In a letter sent to regulators in December, Prime Minister Starmer urged a greater focus on enabling growth through more responsive regulatory processes. The CAA’s consultation is seen as a direct response to that appeal.

CAA Chief Executive Rob Bishton said: “Airspace is one of the UK’s most important pieces of national infrastructure. If we want our aviation system to grow in line with planning system decisions, be resilient, compete internationally and adapt to new technologies, the way we manage and modernise that airspace must also evolve.

“This consultation sets out reforms that will make the system simpler and more proportionate, while retaining the key evidence and transparent approach. It is a critical step towards delivering the airspace modernisation the UK needs.”

Although the London region remains the most complex area for implementing change — due to air traffic volume and population density — regional airports like Bristol may find it easier under the new proposals to secure approval for revised flight paths that meet local needs.

The consultation is now open and will close on 18 December.