HC Deb 29 April 1980 vol 983 c413W
Mr. Onslow

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what measures are being taken to secure economies in the use of aviation fuel, with particular reference to the adjustment of air traffic control procedures.

Mr. Tebbit

Fuel economy in airline operations lies largely in the hands of the operators by the choice of aircraft and by improvements in aircraft operating procedures. The national air traffic services of the United Kingdom are acutely aware of the importance of fuel economy and give it careful attention when planning controlled airspace.

The extent and use of military danger areas is now under review to try to improve airspace sharing and direct routing. Changes are planned in the London terminal area in order to reduce mileage and restrictions, and improved take-off and landing procedures are being developed at several aerodromes. One direct fuel-saving international route between Cork and the Brussels upper information region boundary on the route upper Lima I has been agreed on a trial basis and others are being examined.