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<p>UK airspace is an invisible but vital piece of our national infrastructure. Modernisation
is long overdue and is critical to ensure that UK airspace is fit for purpose in the
future. Its aim is to deliver quicker, quieter and cleaner journeys and more capacity
for the benefit of those who use and are affected by UK airspace.</p><p> </p><p>The
Airspace Modernisation Strategy (AMS) sets out the ways, means and ends of modernising
airspace through nine elements that will modernise aircraft-based navigation and airspace
management. A refreshed AMS was published in January 2023 which extends the strategy
out to 2040, reaffirming our commitment to delivering this key infrastructure programme.
Sustainability is an overarching principle of the strategy. The environmental benefits
of the strategy will contribute towards our Jet Zero emissions reductions targets
for the aviation sector.</p><p> </p><p>The environmental benefits of airspace modernisation
will contribute towards our Jet Zero emissions reductions targets for the aviation
sector. The Free Route Airspace deployment over the southwest of England in March
2023 saved 12,000+ tonnes of CO2/year and 150,000 nautical miles of flying, which
is the equivalent of seven trips around the world.</p><p> </p><p>All sponsors of airspace
change must follow the Civil Aviation Authority's regulatory requirements as set out
in CAP1616. These requirements reflect the Government's Air Navigation Guidance 2017
which requires sponsors to consider the use of multiple flightpaths to disperse air
traffic, as well as undertake full assessments of the airspace options they are considering.
Noise impacts must be assessed using the Department’s Transport Analysis Guidance
which includes a module for valuing the impacts of noise on health and quality of
life.</p><p> </p><p>Airports are responsible for the specific arrangements for low-level
flightpaths. Engagement with all relevant stakeholders, including communities, is
an important part of CAP1616 and is crucial to the success of the airspace modernisation
programme. I would encourage you and your constituents to partake in these public
engagement exercises to ensure the needs of your constituency are fully accounted
for in the airspace change process.</p>
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