As our consultation on airspace changes in the south east, in conjunction with Gatwick Airport, nears its final week, we’re keen to hear from as many people affected by the proposed changes to flight paths as possible.

The idea of sending instructions to an aircraft as data rather than voice communication seems like an obviously good one. It would lessen the chances of a misunderstanding while at the same time freeing up the pilot and controller for other tasks – a two-fold safety advantage.

With 2013 drawing to a close, it’s time for the obligatory review of the year.

Every year our controller help guide Santa Claus through UK airspace, but that’s only part of the story. His journey through UK airspace has to be carefully planned, taking into account his delivery schedule and the weight of the onboard cargo, weeks in advance.

Tackling the existing fragmentation of European airspace and realising the vision of a Single European Sky requires a whole host of activities – from political breakthroughs to rolling out new technologies.

Engineering skills are being transferred across organisations and borders to support the growth of aviation in the Middle East. Former NATS engineer, Khalid Elseed, explains how he is now using his expertise in a new role as an ICAO Surveillance Adviser to the Saudi Arabian General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).

Can we really expect our online orders to be delivered by drone within the foreseeable future?

Are you longing to sit and watch Airport Live when you settle in front of your TV, especially during these winter months? If so, we thought you would enjoy re-visiting our favourite clips from the show, which BBC2 has just put live.

Since the London Airspace Consultation went live on 15 October 2013, a number of points have been raised from members of the public and interested stakeholders, which we thought we could clarify here, as well as in the FAQ section of the consultation website.

Last week I took part in the Airport Operations Conference, which had the theme “Airports beyond 2020”, and was involved in a panel discussion focused on the airport role within an integrated seamless global network – far more interesting than its title might initially indicate.