UK AIR traffic services provider NATS has extended its partnership with London City Airport by another decade. The tenyear, multimillion-pound deal, which came into effect on November 1, builds on almost 30 years of co-operation with the Docklands facility. It covers air traffic services and related engineering support, including transition from the existing manned ATC tower to a new digital facility enabling NATS to direct operations at the airfield remotely from its Hampshire control centre Alison FitzGerald, London City Airport’s Chief Operations Officer, said: “As we gather pace towards the start of construction on our £400 million development programme, which will enable a further 30,000 flights per year, we’ve taken the decision to continue our longstanding partnership with NATS to deliver the efficient, innovative and reliable air traffic services that are fundamental to the overall operation of the airport.
“In 2020 we will move to digital air traffic control, setting a global standard for the aviation industry to follow. Working closely with NATS, and benefitting from their expertise, we can confidently steer this transition, futureproofing the airport and enhancing safety and efficiency.” (Photo London City Airport/Andrew Holt)