T09L, isn't the point that the changed routes are of aircraft above 6000'? (see post#2 for quote from HAL CEO) and as such NATS had no requirement to tell HAL.
If NATS changed routings of Heathrow outbounds above 20,000' would they still be expected to inform HAL? Where should the line be drawn?
At the moment it seems to be at 4/6000' and above that level, any changes are coordinated with the CAA. (any noise complaints from aircraft above that level should be directed to CAA)
From the article, it appears that NATS has complied with all the rules. If the airport feels it should be first port of call for noise complaints up to 10? thousand feet then the rules should be changed (after consultation) but NATS seem to be getting a raw deal here both from the article and posts on this thread.