Scientists at Nottingham University have developed a computer modelling system for Heathrow Airport that could help reduce the amount of fuel aircraft use as they wait for take-off.
The system takes into account an aircraft’s size and speed, as well as its distance in relation to other jets before feeding the information to air traffic controllers with the aim to cut delays and waiting time.
The BBC website reports that using the university’s software could “cut a maximum of 10 per cent to 25 per cent off the pollution from aircraft waiting at the holding area”.
Air traffic controllers currently use visual observations and other calculations to order the take-off of jets, although there are no plans as yet to introduce the Nottingham system at other airports.
Virgin Atlantic boss Sir Richard Branson recently announced trial plans to tow aircraft to the runway in an attempt to cut fuel emissions and many airlines offer carbon offsetting schemes to their passengers.
