Arriving aircraft do not have defined routes to follow and are provided with instructions from Air Traffic Control who ensure the aircraft are safely spaced whilst being directed to land at London Gatwick. A number of factors affect where arrivals fly and the location of flight paths may vary significantly between different days and even during the day.
There are various noise abatement procedures in force to minimise the impact of arriving aircraft. One of the main noise abatement measures is Continuous Descent Operations (CDO), sometimes referred to as CDA (A for approach). By avoiding level flight segments and drastic speed reductions, the use of thrust and speed brakes is minimised which subsequently reduces noise emissions. Compliance with this procedure is monitored as part of our reporting.
On occasion, often at busy times or during adverse weather, it will not be possible for aircraft to approach and land at London Gatwick without having to undertake short term holding. This takes place in fixed oval pattern known as a stack or hold. London Gatwick has two holding stacks; one called ‘WILLO’ which is located west of Lewes and above Burgess Hill and the second, ‘TIMBA’ is located above Heathfield. The stacks have been in the same locations since the 1960s. NATS is responsible for the location of the stacks and they cannot be moved without an airspace change and public consultation. The minimum altitude of aircraft in the stack is 7,000ft and is set to keep noise on the ground as low as possible.
You can find out more about how arriving aircraft approach London Gatwick by watching this short video or by downloading our information pack:
Arrivals and holding video:
Information packs:
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