Four core changes planned for Manchester Low Level Route

The UK CAA is proposing changes to the Manchester Low Level Route following a review of the airspace last year.

“Our review of the airspace, published in July last year, uncovered a number of safety concerns, notably the risk of mid-air collisions (MAC), which endanger both air traffic and ground communities,” said the CAA’s Airspace Classification team.

“Additionally, challenges in ensuring safe emergency landings due to urban expansion, risks of airspace infringements due to proximity to Class D airspace, and discrepancies in pilot GPS navigation software further complicate MLLR operations.”

The four proposed elements:

• Reclassifying the current Class D MLLR airspace to Class G uncontrolled airspace.
• Implementing a Restricted Area within the reclassified airspace.
• A maximum altitude within the Class G airspace of 1500ft – 200ft higher than the MLLR currently permits.
• Creating Class G airspace 0.65 nautical miles wider than today’s MLLR along its eastern boundary.

The CAA said it has conducted a thorough Hazard Identification (HAZID) session with the neighbouring airspace controlling authorities and determined that the proposed amendment will improve safety within the MLLR.

A ‘public engagement’ has been launched by the CAA for anyone with an interest in this airspace, including local communities, to participate. It ends on 15 July 2024 and can be found here.

The CAA is also holding a public drop-in information session to allow stakeholders to come and speak to the project team.

Date and time: 4 June 2024, 12:45 – 18:15
Venue: Hartford Village Hall, 244 Chester Rd, Hartford, Northwich CW8 1LW