Flight paths shake-up could mean quicker journeys and fewer delays for passengers
Ministers have ordered an overhaul of UK airspace to create more direct routes.
The review could also let planes climb into the sky quicker to reduce the noise for communities below.
In the long-term, the government says the redesign would even create the necessary airspace for the 'flying taxis' of the future to operate.
Britain's flightpaths have not been changed since the 1950s when there were just 200,000 flights per year, compared with 2.7million in 2024.
It has resulted in flight congestion that often forces planes to circle overhead before landing, causing frustration to passengers as well as more emissions.
A new UK Airspace Design Service will be up and running by the end of the year, and will first focus on re-carving London's flightpaths in anticipation of a third Heathrow runway.
Transport Minister Mike Kane said: 'Redesigned 'skyways' will turbocharge growth in the aviation industry.
"Not least by boosting airport expansion plans and supporting job creation, driving millions into the UK economy as part of the Plan for Change.
'Modernising our airspace is also one of the simplest ways to help reduce pollution from flying and will set the industry up for a long-term sustainable future.'
Tim Alderslade of Airlines UK added: 'Modernising UK airspace is long overdue.
"These changes will help to speed up a programme that will provide tangible reforms, from a reduction in delays, improved resilience and lower carbon emissions.'
Travelers have only days before May 23 'flight switch' rule ends – you face long delays if you don't act immediately
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