The extended touchdown zone is to allow aircraft to fly higher over the residential areas of Hounslow, thus reducing noise, and is I believe still only a proposal.
Any reverse thrust greater than reverse idle is not allowed at LHR, except in wet, icing or limiting conditions - unless turnaround times are short, the usage of modern carbon fibre brakes reduces brake wear, since they are more effective at higher temperatures meaning that use as primary braking device ensures such higher temperatures but lower brake wear, lower fuel usage and lower noise.
I would hasten to add that it may only be a policy of BA during daylight hours as well, though is mandatory during night hours. With 40% plus of traffic it would be sensible for BA not to disturb residents.
He appears to be correct.
Last edited by Re-Heat; 7th Dec 2004 at 09:06.