A message to pilots flying into Heathrow and Gatwick
We have recently implemented a new (automated) arrival computer at Swanwick.
As controllers, we are extremely unhappy with the inaccuracies of the information, and the number of times it changes.
We feel that not only does it unacceptably increase our workload and make us sound like idiots, it increases the workload on the flight deck, causes unnecessary worry over fuel planning, increases R/T and overall has impinged on flight safety.
This system has already caused aircraft to divert because of poor information.
We are fighting a battle at the moment regarding this system - one which has only been slightly acknowledged with a couple of new software patches... it is still far from ideal.
I urge any pilots who may feel that they are being given a degraded service or poor information to let your management know and ensure it is passed onto NATS.
I know report writing is a pain, but this is a serious issue. If you have genuine grievances, please report them.
This equipment was introduced without robust testing nor training - it may well be a benefit in the future, but we feel that it is unfair and ultimately unsafe for people to suffer in the present due to poor decisions regarding implementation.
Thank you.