UK: Mixed-use runways would increase capacity, say trio of carriers
Three British airlines are proposing a new way of operating that would allow for 10 more flights an hour at Heathrow.
As reported in recent weeks, the west London hub is rapidly approaching its capacity, with carriers queuing up to operate more flights that they are currently allowed at Heathrow.
According to The Sunday Times, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and BMI British Midland now say that if the airport were used in a different way, efficiency could be improved and the number of flights at the airport could theoretically be increased from 80 to 90 per hour.
At present, one of the Heathrow runways is used for take-offs and one for landings; the three carriers say they should both be “mixed-use” runways.
The practice is widespread in the United States and while there are thought to be few safety issues, such a proposal would be likely to bring protests from noise campaigners and other environmentalists.
