Gatwick, West Sussex – 26 March 2025 — In a global aviation first, Gatwick Airport has introduced a groundbreaking aircraft separation system aimed at slashing carbon emissions and improving flight punctuality.
The new system, developed by air traffic management provider NATS in partnership with technology firm Leidos, replaces traditional fixed-distance aircraft separation with dynamically calculated time-based intervals – a major leap for runway efficiency, especially under challenging weather conditions.
Better for the Environment, Better for Travellers
NATS predicts the innovative change will reduce annual carbon emissions by 11,000 to 19,000 tonnes of CO₂, by minimising aircraft holding times in the air and improving landing flow — particularly in strong headwinds that usually slow down arrivals and cause delays or cancellations.
“Introducing Intelligent Approach at London Gatwick is another world first and shows the strength of our partnership with the airport,” said Chris Norsworthy, NATS Director of Airspace and Future Operations. “This will directly improve on-time performance, reduce late or cancelled flights, and cut carbon emissions.”
First-Ever at a Single Runway Mixed-Mode Airport
The system, known as Intelligent Approach, marks the first time time-based separation has been used at a single runway mixed-mode airport, where departures and arrivals share the same runway. Previously, the system had only been deployed at major airports like Heathrow, Toronto Pearson, and Amsterdam Schiphol, but never in a single-runway setting like Gatwick.
Mark Johnston, Chief Operating Officer at London Gatwick, said: “This leading technology will provide more reliable landing times and reduce delays, which is great news for passengers. Crucially, it will also significantly cut aircraft fuel burn and emissions – a key priority for us.”
How It Works
The Intelligent Approach system gives air traffic controllers enhanced radar tools that calculate optimal aircraft sequencing in real-time, considering live wind data and the time needed for departing aircraft to clear the runway. In strong headwinds, when traditional distance-based separation causes delays, the new system maintains consistent landing rates without compromising safety.
Leidos UK Managing Director Graham Emmons added: “Gatwick is the first to adopt our Advanced Mixed Mode capability. It’s a major milestone for improving operational efficiency and cutting emissions per flight.”
Part of a Broader Green Push in UK Aviation
The system’s development ties into wider research on Time Based Separation, initially explored under the SESAR Programme – a European air traffic modernisation initiative.
As the UK aviation sector faces pressure to become more sustainable, Gatwick’s move could become a benchmark for other single-runway airports worldwide.
