Originally Posted by
Mooncrest
Given that Southend is regarded as a London airport nowadays, what are the chances of its Approach/Radar function being ensnared by Swanwick ?
Nil unless NATS gets the contract to become ANSP at Southend.
Even then it's unlikely because:
NATS would have to pay the Southend controllers for a house move.
NATS would have to pay the Southend controllers who move the same salary band as other Swanwick controllers.(The highest NATS salary band)
Those Southend controllers who move to Swanwick would be required to cross train on at least one other sector there (eg Essex Radar) in order to provide flexible manning.
Those Southend controllers who stay at Southend would 'lose' their approach radar C of C and be unable to provide combined TWR/APS during 'quiet' periods if it was approved by SRG.
The only plus is that NATS could operate the Southend Airport contract using controllers who only hold ADV/ADI ratings as at Luton, Stansted and City.(and pay them the lowest salary band)