Originally Posted by
Teevee
Just a question as I don't live anywhere near EGLL but how will a third runway reduce pollution and waiting/holding times etc? Surely a third runway doesn't mean the same amount of traffic now using two runways using three? Won't the amount of traffic grow exponentially so the same problems will remain?
AFAIK runways down that neck of the woods are like garden sheds ... the more there arer the more stuff gets stuffed into 'em.
It depends.
Pollution - are you talking noise or emissions?
Noise - factors to consider are quieter aircraft (A380 v B747), steeper approaches, RNAV, displaced thlds against more airframes;
Emissions - factors to consider here are cleaner aircraft (A320NEO, B787, A350), steeper approaches and reduced engine taxiing against more airframes;
Holding/taxi times - consider A-CDM (smarter, efficient sequencing), slowing arrivals beyond UK FIR, efficient turnrounds, more stands meaning less holding on taxiways, more runway capacity to absorb disruptions (slow to vacates, long landers, runway inspections following birdstrikes);
Capacity - 3rd runway gives you more slots but airline demand is unlikely to use all of them on day 1 so then it's a conversation between airlines, airport & regulator as to how much resilience you want - hold back slots to recover and improve punctuality or cram them in to improve commercial revenues?
Look at the airports that have spare capacity during the day (eg AMS, LGW) and you see their ability to recover punctuality.