North West Transit Corridor replaces MLLR from 20 February

UPDATE: The CAA has issued a reminder to pilots that the Manchester Low Level Route – a VFR route squeezed between Liverpool and Manchester – will become the new North West Transit Corridor from 20 February 2025 with some key changes.

The airspace will reclassify to Class G with new operational requirements, including an increased altitude of 1,500 feet AMSL and widened boundaries. Pilots should review AIC Y 004/2025 for more details. Updated VFR charts will be available in April 2025.

The CAA said, “The MLLR will cease to exist and the airspace will be reclassified and replaced by a Class G airspace Restricted Area (RA) to be known as EGR323 North West Transit Corridor, designed to improve safety and efficiency for general aviation while maintaining essential access for airspace users.”

The key amendments include:

• Reclassifying the current MLLR airspace from Class D to Class G uncontrolled airspace.
• A Restricted Area will be introduced to regulate aircraft speed and weight, as well as a visibility and QNH setting requirement, ensuring safer transit.
• The maximum altitude within the North West Transit Corridor will be raised to 1500 feet AMSL, an increase of 200 feet from the previous limit.
• The airspace will be widened by 0.65 nautical miles along its eastern boundary, enhancing access and safety for users.

Existing MLLR on the left. New NWTC on the right

“These changes are designed to mitigate risks identified in our review, including the potential for mid-air collisions and challenges with safe emergency landings,” continued the CAA.

“By simplifying airspace management and introducing these new measures, we aim to ensure safer, more efficient operations for general aviation traffic in the North West.”

• Flying in the North West – Advice for Pilots

Before the implementation, the CAA is planning education and outreach efforts to ensure airspace users are fully informed of the new procedures and requirements.

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