The UK’s main air navigation service provider (ANSP), NATS has been reappointed to provide air traffic services at Gatwick Airport following a six year break. All five major London airports now have air traffic services provided by NATS for the first time since 2016.

The transition from the previous provider, Air Navigation Solutions Limited, took place overnight on 8-9 October with NATS now concentrating on building the resilience of the airport’s traffic operations. With up to 55 aircraft movements per hour off its single runway, Gatwick is one of the most challenging airports in the world for air traffic controllers. The ANSP is also working with the airport to support its longer-term strategic objectives with plans underway to train and recruit new and experienced controllers.

In a world-first for a single runway ‘mixed-mode’ airport, where take-offs and landings occur on the same runway, NATS also hopes to implement its Intelligent Approach arrival spacing tool and plans to work with Searidge Technologies to evaluate the possible use of new digital air traffic management tools at the airport to further enhance operational performance.

Steward Wingate, Gatwick Airport CEO said: “NATS comes with a world-beating reputation for providing air traffic control service. We’re looking forward to working closely together to build resilience in the years ahead, which of course will benefit our passengers, airlines, employees and the region’s wider economy.”

Martin Rolfe, NATS CEO also commented on Gatwick’s decision to reappoint the ANSP saying: “It speaks to the faith [Gatwick] has in NATS to both deliver the best possible service and to support the airport’s long-term strategic objectives. Our first priority is to enhance the resilience of the air traffic operation so we can deliver the kind of service the airport, its airlines and their passengers will need for the future.”

 

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