Something else that needs addressing as well.
Two weeks time will see the anniversary of LACC Swanwick "opening" for business. Now, I have little doubt that the "spin doctors" have already prepared their press releases about how it's all been a glowing success.
Before they actually release their "half truths", they might like to consider the facts.
1) LACC Swanwick has directly been the cause of the biggest ATC delays in UK ATC history .
2) There have never been enough operational staff to run LACC, and nor will there be for the next few YEARS
3) LATCC (West Drayton) would have handled the 2002 traffic with virtually no delays.
4) LACC Swanwick is far more labour intensive than LATCC.
5) There are still major problems with the equipment and environment at LACC.
6) Sector capacity increases are minimal, and in several cases LOWER than available at LATCC.
So, although Swanwick does work, it cannot be described as a "glowing success". It hasn't been. It is merely a qualified success, no more.
This is a request to NATS spokespeople. If you MUST mark this sad anniversary, tell the truth. The good and the BAD, to the media. That way you might just earn a little respect. Trotting out the party line that "everything in the garden is rosy" just serves to annoy.
Thank you
Rgds BEX