Shallower approach for the A320neo
Airspace Change Process – RNP AR
What we’re doing?
We have applied to the CAA for a new flight procedure RNP AR (Required Navigation Performance – Authorisation Required) to allow a shallower approach for the A320neo aircraft.
This will allow a shallower approach than the current Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach of 5.5 degrees. RNP AR is more stringent than the ILS approach and allows very precise landing approaches (utilising Performance Based Navigation).
Airlines and crew will require special approval to fly the RNP AR approach. This is because of the advanced avionics, additional pilot training and strict procedures involved.
The physical change is a small alteration to the final kilometres of approach. It is not a wholesale airspace change. All existing procedures remain the same for other aircraft types.
Why are we doing this?
The change will enable the A320neo to operate from LCY. This is a new generation aircraft cleaner and quieter than current aircraft at LCY and the original A320 seen at other airports.
Initial indications from specification data points to the A320neo being quieter than the current E190, even with the shallower approach.
The A320neo is larger than any aircraft type at LCY. Its introduction will mean passenger growth to 9mppa while remaining within our aircraft movement limit 111,000 Air Traffic Movements.
The A320neo is commonly operated by airlines. Therefore, making RNP AR approach available opens the airport to a wider range of airlines.
The precision that comes with RNP AR will mean the already high levels of safety at LCY will be that much higher.
The Airspace Change Process
The ACP process is owned and governed by the CAA. Any permanent change to UK airspace needs to go through the same basic process, regardless of the extent of the scale.
We are currently at Stage 1 in this process. In Stage 2 we will engage with you on the development our design options before launching a public consultation on our progressed options at Stage 3. Following successful consultation, we will submit our formal ACP to the CAA for their consideration. Details on the CAA’s Airspace Change Process (CAP 1616) – including Stage 1 – can be found here.
A key element in the development of these design principles is stakeholder engagement.
London City Airport believes the success of this airspace change proposal will stem from early engagement with stakeholders, maintaining transparency, and keeping stakeholders informed throughout the process.
We therefore welcome your views on these design principles. Press play on this presentation for more information.
Engagement sessions on the design principles were held with Stakeholders on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of April 2025. The questions raised along during these sessions and our answers can be found in the below document.
Please share your views via this form by Friday 25th April 2025.
Follow our progress on the CAA Airspace Change Portal.
For more information, contact: LCY-ACP@londoncityairport.com