In 2022, the UK experienced a remarkable increase in air travel, with 206.35 million passengers, reflecting an 8.8% rise from 2021 and a staggering 566% growth from 2020, underscoring a robust recovery in air travel demand post-pandemic. The aviation industry, including airlines and their supply chains, contributes approximately $86 billion to the UK’s GDP, with an additional $34 billion supported by international visitor spending, totaling $120 billion. The UK’s strategic geographical location further strengthens its role as a key hub for transatlantic flights and global connections, enhancing its significance as a gateway for international travel, trade, and connectivity. Here are 5 of the airports that provide this global position:
- London Heathrow Airport (IATA: LHR, ICAO: EGLL)
- London Gatwick Airport (IATA: LGW, ICAO: EGKK)
- Manchester Airport (IATA: MAN, ICAO: EGCC)
- London Stansted Airport (IATA: STN, ICAO: EGSS)
- Edinburgh Airport (IATA: EDI, ICAO: EGPH)
International Flight Operations at London Heathrow Airport (IATA: LHR, ICAO: EGLL)
London Heathrow Airport (IATA: LHR, ICAO: EGLL) features two parallel east-west runways. The Northern Runway, designated 09L/27R, measures 3,902 meters in length and 50 meters in width. The Southern Runway, designated 09R/27L, is slightly shorter at 3,658 meters but maintains the same width. Both runways are constructed with grooved asphalt surfaces to enhance friction and drainage, crucial for safe aircraft operations in various weather conditions.
The airport comprises four operational passenger terminals. Terminal 2, known as the “Queen’s Terminal,” spans 40,000 square meters and incorporates sustainable design elements, including 124 solar panels on the roof. Terminal 3, originally named the Oceanic Terminal, covers 98,962 square meters and was the first in the UK to feature moving walkways. Terminal 4, measuring 105,481 square meters, underwent significant refurbishment to enhance passenger experience. Terminal 5, the largest at 353,020 square meters, is equivalent in size to 50 football pitches.
Each terminal is equipped with a range of technical facilities. These include advanced baggage handling systems, automated check-in kiosks, and biometric security gates to streamline passenger processing. Business lounges in all terminals provide workstations, high-speed internet, and private meeting rooms. Additionally, there are multi-faith prayer rooms, shower facilities, and numerous charging points for electronic devices. The terminals also feature interactive maps to assist passengers in navigating the complex layout.
International Flight Operations at London Gatwick Airport (IATA: LGW, ICAO: EGKK)
London Gatwick Airport (IATA: LGW, ICAO: EGKK) operates primarily with a single main runway, designated 08R/26L, which measures 3,316 meters in length and 44 meters in width. This runway is constructed with grooved asphalt to enhance friction and drainage, ensuring safe operations under various weather conditions. There is also a secondary runway, 08L/26R, which is shorter at 2,565 meters and is typically used only when the main runway is unavailable.
The airport is divided into two main terminals: the North Terminal and the South Terminal. The North Terminal, which spans 98,000 square meters, features three levels with check-in and arrivals on the ground floor, departures on the first floor, and a mezzanine level housing restaurants and shops. The South Terminal, covering 160,000 square meters, has four levels with similar facilities. Both terminals are equipped with advanced baggage handling systems, automated check-in kiosks, and biometric security gates to streamline passenger processing.
London Gatwick Airport has a total of 65 gates. The North Terminal houses 34 gates, primarily serving long-haul flights and a significant number of short-haul flights. The South Terminal contains 31 gates, handling a mix of domestic and international flights. Business lounges in both terminals offer workstations, high-speed internet, and private meeting rooms. Additional facilities include multi-faith prayer rooms, shower facilities, and numerous charging points for electronic devices. Interactive maps are available to assist passengers in navigating the terminals. The terminals also feature dedicated security areas for premium passengers, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience.
United Kingdom International Airport Slot Coordination
Slot timing at UK airports is governed by a set of international guidelines to ensure fair access and minimize congestion. The primary body responsible for slot coordination in the UK is Airport Coordination Limited (ACL). Slots are allocated based on the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Worldwide Airport Slot Guidelines (WASG), which emphasize transparency, flexibility, and sustainability.
Slots are permissions granted to airlines to use airport infrastructure for landings and takeoffs at specific times. UK airports are categorized into three levels based on congestion. Level 1 airports have sufficient capacity to meet demand without coordination. Level 2 airports may experience delays at peak times and require schedules to be adjusted. Level 3 airports, such as London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), and Manchester (MAN), are fully coordinated due to high demand exceeding capacity.
For Level 3 airports, slots are allocated twice a year for the summer and winter seasons. Airlines must submit their slot requests to ACL, which then coordinates with other airports and air traffic control to finalize the schedule. The allocation process considers historical precedence, ensuring airlines that have used slots efficiently in the past retain their timings. New entrants and airlines seeking additional slots must apply through a competitive process.
Airlines are required to use their allocated slots at least 80% of the time to retain them for the next equivalent season. This “use it or lose it” rule ensures optimal utilization of airport capacity. Slot timings are critical for flight operators as they impact scheduling, turnaround times, and overall operational efficiency.
How To Obtain Airport Slots at UK Airports?
Reach out to Just Aviation Team, and we will help you in securing your slots in a few steps. Below are the required documents for slot allocation include:
- Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC): This certifies the airline’s operational capability and safety standards.
- Insurance Certificate: Proof of adequate insurance coverage for the aircraft and operations.
- Noise Certificate: Compliance with noise regulations, particularly important for night slots.
- Aircraft Registration Certificate: Documentation of the aircraft’s registration details.
- Operational Schedule: Detailed flight schedules, including frequency and timing of flights.
- Historical Data: For airlines seeking to retain their slots, historical usage data demonstrating compliance with the “use it or lose it” rule (80% usage requirement) is necessary.
Once the documentation is submitted, our team coordinates with other airports and air traffic control to finalize the slot allocation. The process ensures that slots are distributed fairly and efficiently, considering both historical precedence and the needs of new entrants. For all your UK airports slot needs, contact Just Aviation in advance to arrange the necessary documents on time and ensure smooth flight operations.
1. Overflight Permit in the United Kingdom (UK) Flight Operations
For business flight operators, including private non-revenue and charter operations, there are generally no permit requirements for overflying the UK. However, if the aircraft is operating under an experimental certificate or does not meet specific airworthiness standards, an exemption or permission may be required.
2. Landing Permits in the United Kingdom (UK) Flight Operations
For scheduled flights, all non-UK air carriers, including those from the EU, EEA, and EFTA, must obtain a Foreign Carrier Permit to undertake commercial services to, from, or within the UK. The type of permit required depends on the nature of the operations:
- Ad-Hoc Permit: For short-term or one-off non-scheduled (charter) services. Application form: CPG3200.
- Scheduled or Series Charter Permit: For regular scheduled or series charter services. Application form: CPG3201.
For non-scheduled flights, including business and charter operations, the same Foreign Carrier Permit is required. The application process involves providing detailed information about the aircraft, insurance, and compliance with UK Border Force requirements.
Application Process
- Complete the Application Form: Depending on the type of operation (Ad-Hoc or Scheduled), fill out the relevant form (CPG3200 or CPG3201).
- Provide Required Information: This includes:
- Aircraft Registration Certificate: Proof of ownership and registration of the aircraft.
- Airworthiness Certificate: Verification that the aircraft meets safety standards.
- Certificate of Insurance: Proof of valid insurance coverage for the aircraft.
- Compliance with Advanced Passenger Information Systems: Ensuring compliance with UK Border Force requirements.
- Submit and Pay: Submit the application online and make the necessary payment at the time of application.
For all your permit needs, Just Aviation’s expert team is ready to help and complete the application process smoothly and efficiently. Feel free to reach out to them for professional assistance.
Ground Handling Operations at United Kingdom International Airports
At major airports such as LHR, LGW, MAN, STN, and EDI, ground handling operations are supported by high-loaders, belt loaders, and pushback tractors for efficient aircraft management. Ground Power Units (GPUs), air starters, and aircraft tugs are essential for powering and maneuvering aircraft on the ground. These facilities are equipped with cutting-edge technology to accommodate various aircraft types and sizes.
Maintenance services at these airports are comprehensive, including line maintenance for diverse aircraft models and Aircraft on Ground (AOG) support for urgent repairs with providing all GSEs. Fuel provision encompasses Jet A-1, Avgas 100LL, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), ensuring efficient and sustainable operations. Spacious, climate-controlled hangars with advanced fire suppression and security measures provide secure storage. Efficient parking management, deicing and anti-icing services, and advanced cargo logistics systems further enhance operational efficiency and safety.
Discover seamless flight support services for UK International Airports with Just Aviation. From efficient flight planning and cost-effective fuel solutions to expedited permits and comprehensive ground support, we ensure every aspect of your journey is handled with precision. Our close collaboration with flight and cabin crews, as well as ground handling teams, guarantees a smooth and stress-free experience at UK International Airports. Reach out to us today and rely on Just Aviation for exceptional services at competitive rates.