Scotland is preparing for its biggest airspace transformation in more than 70 years, as proposals are unveiled to update flight paths over Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Scotland’s Airspace to Undergo Historic Redesign
A public consultation has begun to gather views on the new routes for Scotland, which aim to cut emissions reduce aircraft noise and improve efficiency in one of the UK’s busiest skies.
The Airspace Change Organising Group (Acog), in partnership with Edinburgh Airport, Glasgow Airport and air traffic management service NATS is leading the consultation under the Scottish Airspace Modernisation Plan.
The initiative forms part of a wider UK programme to create quieter, cleaner and quicker air travel.
Outdated 1950s Routes Costing Time and Fuel
Britain’s current airspace network was originally designed in the 1950s using ground-based navigation beacons technology that no longer reflects the capabilities of modern aircraft. Today’s planes often fly longer routes at less efficient altitudes simply to pass over these legacy points.
NATS estimates that revising the routes could cut carbon emissions by 18,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent every year, the same as the annual energy use of around 5,000 homes.
Above 7,000 feet, Scottish airspace handles over 40% of the UK’s air traffic, making it one of the busiest and most complex airspaces in the country.
Lee Boulton, head of operations development at NATS, said:
“With demand expected to rise over the next decade, modernisation will ensure the network can meet future needs.”
Public Consultation to Shape Future Flight Paths for Scotland
The proposed redesign divides responsibility between the airports and NATS: Edinburgh and Glasgow airports will focus on take-off and landing routes below 7,000 feet, while NATS will manage higher-altitude connections.
Public events will be held throughout the consultation period to present the plans to communities, local businesses and policymakers. The consultation runs until 25 January 2026 and residents can share feedback through the official Scottish Airspace Modernisation website.
Mark Swan, head of Acog, called the initiative “a significant milestone” for UK aviation.
“Airspace is critical national infrastructure that underpins tourism, trade and economic growth. Modernisation will help deliver lower emissions, reduced delays and better journeys for passengers.”
Ediburgh Airport chief executive Gordon Dewar and Glasgow Airport managing director Mark Beveridge both emphasised the importance of local engagement in shaping Scotland’s cleaner, more efficient skies.
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