What would reallly help is an RNAV approach for 26R/08L although I believe that is coming once the current 26L/08R trial procedures are made permanent.
RightWayUp..cant really comment on the height v track miles thing. All I will say is that we always try to provide a CDA especially at night when it forms part of the night noise criteria- a/c not to be below 6000ft until 20 miles from touchdown// not to establish on ILS inside 10miles// not below 3000ft until 10miles from touchdown. The fact that we have been on 08R for the last week may explain it though...not so much airspace to play with as on 26L and can get a bit cramped for room...if the pressure is low you can end up off TIMBA at FL90 with 25miles to run sometimes...we do try though!
On a totally different note, I've just heard that easyJet have bought GB airways
