Heathrow delays 'could be cut by mixed-mode'
25 February 2008The frequent delays at Heathrow airport that have caused so many people to rely on their travel insurance could be reduced by the adoption of a new runway system, according to British Airways.
Research by the airline found that the use of a mixed-mode approach, whereby runways are used for both takeoffs and landings, could cut weather-related delays at Heathrow by up to two-thirds.
The study found that Heathrow is frequently prone to reductions in its rate of aircraft arrivals in windy conditions.
At Gatwick, however, where a mixed-mode system is in place, arrivals largely stay consistent despite high winds, according to BA.
Paul Ellis, BA's infrastructure manager, said: "Years of practical experience of runway operation at Heathrow and Gatwick has shown conclusively that mixed-mode operation provides much better protection against delays when weather conditions are difficult.
"The introduction of mixed-mode at Heathrow would be a real bonus for passengers."
In 2006, the last full year for which data is available, Heathrow saw air traffic control restrictions placed on arrivals on 276 days, leading to a total short-haul delay of 280,000 minutes.