 |
Public engagement on changes to the Manchester Low Level Route (MLLR) launched |
The UK Civil Aviation Authority has announced their public engagement activity on its proposed amendment to the volume of airspace currently known as the Manchester Low Level Route (MLLR).
Their 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. 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.
These findings, along with the fact that the current rule exemption that allows the MLLR to operate as it does, underscores the urgent need for amendments to mitigate these risks and enhance safety for all airspace users.
The Proposals
After detailed analysis and collaboration with both Manchester and Liverpool Airports, the CAA are now proposing an amendment to the MLLR with four core elements.
The proposed elements are:
- 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 have 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, while not negatively impact the safety of their existing operations. The CAA also do not expect the amendment to have any negative impacts on the aviation community or local communities.
Have your say
the CAA encourage anyone with an interest in this airspace, including local communities, to participate in their public engagement, which ends on 15 July 2024. This can be accessed through the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s dedicated engagement page.
The CAA will also be holding a public drop-in information session to allow all stakeholders to come and speak to the project team and learn more. The details of this session are:
Date and time: 4 June 2024, 12:45 - 18:15
Venue: Hartford Village Hall, 244 Chester Rd, Hartford, Northwich CW8 1LW
Finally, it is important to note that this proposal to amend the MLLR is being presented by the UK Civil Aviation Authority and is a wholly separate piece of work to the airspace change proposals being presented by both Manchester and Liverpool Airports, as part of the FASI program.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please contact us at
Airspace Classification team
UK Civil Aviation Authority