Re: GLOUCESTER
GK430
Good points, but nothing 'show stopping'.
The current balance of radar/non-radar ATCO's is about right. Another started a course last week and with ASTAC moving on site, future training should be a little easier.
The ILS will be looked after under the current (CAA Approved) contract arrangements that are used to support the existing navaids and ATC kit. Flight checking is an ongoing cost, which is accounted for in budget planning. Nobody could seriously contemplate LHR under the present slot arrangements, but who knows how that might change?
ILS presents some issues, of course, in the training environment in regards to spacing, but we're well versed at integrating multiple NDB/DME's and crossing runway ops already....we'll just be doing lots more of it.
The benefit to homebased operators is the saving made by not having to fly somewhere else for ILS training. They'll now have 'the full monty' on their doorstep and the non-trainers will save on diversions in LVPs. Homebased currently enjoy a 50% discount on training approaches and priority in making bookings, wouldn't have though that would change....