Downwind Left Hand 08 EGGW
Just thought I'd let all you boys and girls that fly into Luton know, we have been told we are no longer allowed to vector IFR aircraft 'downwind left-hand' for 08. Even when Dunstable are closed!!
For traffic being routed via BKY and through the 'Luton Gate', this adds about 10-15 miles to your approach. All this extra distance flown at 5 or 4000 feet.
The reasons given are not that clear. When you do it they say the aircraft are vectored very close to the edge of controlled airspace - when aren't they in the TMA, especially 05 at EGSS, can't we do that now? As long as they don't go outside controlled airspace, whats the problem. Adds to your workload!! Only if you aren't that good at EGGW and if it does affect your workload, don't do it.
Is it safe? Yes. Does it save miles and money for the airlines? Yes. So ban it!! How clever.