UK aviation reforms could sideline public input over flight paths, campaigners warn

Plans to speed up airspace changes for Heathrow expansion could mean industry influences decisions on noise and routes

Aviation campaigners have warned that communities risk being locked out of decisions about new flight paths as the government accelerates reforms that will allow a third runway at Heathrow to go ahead.

Airspace around the UK will be reconfigured as part of a long-running modernisation process to allow planes to fly more efficiently and minimise delays, and the London airport has said progress in this area is essential for its expansion.