Continuous Descent Approaches (CDAs) have long been acknowledged by the Association to enhance safety benefits when compared with the traditional stepped approach to landing at an airport. Now the Association is pushing for greater implementation of CDAs because the procedure also saves fuel, emits less CO2 and reduces noise impact around airports.

CDAs have been shown in trials undertaken by Eurocontrol to effect a 10 – 30% reduction in fuel burn and up to a 30% reduction in noise. This equates to a saving of between 50 and 150kgs of fuel and up to 450kgs of CO2 per flight.

Mike Ambrose, director general, commented: “Regional airports are less restricted than some of the busier major hubs such as London Heathrow or Frankfurt, and are therefore best placed to apply continuous descent approaches. No special equipment is necessarily required, but it does entail enhanced cooperation between airlines, airports and air traffic service providers.”

ERA now plans to work closely with Eurocontrol to promote the implementation of CDAs at regional airports throughout Europe through collaboration with airlines, airports and air traffic services providers.