GPS instrument approach proposed for Stapleford

Stapleford Aerodrome in northeast London is proposing a GPS instrument approach to its main runway, RWY21L. It has launched a consultation which ends on 26 March 2018. The consultation document can be downloaded here.

The proposal is mainly to allow Stapleford Flight Centre (SFC) to continue instrument training when the nearby Lambourn VOR is withdrawn in the next two years. However, it will be of benefit to all General Aviation pilots flying IFR.

“If our proposal is approved, the implementation of the instrument approach will allow approaches to the aerodrome when the weather is poor (e.g. low cloud base or visibility) and improve the safety of operations during deteriorating weather conditions,” says Stapleford.

“Currently, there is no approved Instrument approach to Stapleford and aircraft intending to land at the aerodrome have to divert to another aerodrome if they are unable to see the runway.

“The proposed instrument approach will allow SFC to continue local instrument approach training following the withdrawal of the LAM VOR. Without any facility to support instrument approach training at Stapleford, such as the VOR or the proposed procedure, all instrument approach training would have to be conducted at an alternative airport, increasing costs.”

The aerodrome has received a grant from the European GNSS Agency to support the implementation and is working with the  Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and aviation consultancy Helios.

The total number of movements at the airport was 40,000 in 2016, of which 35,000 movements were operated by SFC. Approximately 80% of flights utilised runway 21L, which represents 32,000 movements.

FLYER comment: to put this proposal into context:

• There’s a dearth of General Aviation Instrument Approaches (IAPs) around London, with Biggin Hill really being the only option. Other than that it means going to Oxford or Southend, and neither are really London.
• This is a visible sign of the desire by many, including EASA and ESA, to get instrument approaches to every suitable runway end.
• The UK is way behind places like France and the US on GPS approaches (really called RNAV approaches now, but same thing).
• If it happens, then Stapleford should be a shining example of having an approach without full ATC.

Stapleford Aerodrome