From 13 November, London Biggin Hill Airport is implementing the trial phase of a new Instrument Approach for Runway 03.
Authorised by the Civil Aviation Authority, the trial introduces a modern satellite-based approach for Runway 03 which will enable more predictable and consistent operations.
The trial phase will initially include a limited number of approved operators and will be closely monitored throughout.
Why introduce a new approach for Runway 03?
London Biggin Hill currently operates Instrument Approach Procedures to Runway 21, but none to Runway 03 – these arrivals currently have to approach visually (where pilots must see the runway to land).
The new procedure will:
- Improve reliability and operational resilience – ensuring aircraft can land in a wide range of weather conditions.
- Provide consistent operations – ensuring the airport remains a dependable base for business and private aviation.
- Deliver respite – by alleviating a percentage of air traffic from residential areas affected by the Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach for Runway 21.
How we reached the trial stage
Following a period of development and engagement with industry stakeholders and our local Consultative Committee, a comprehensive trial plan and proposed Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP) design package was submitted to the CAA in March 2024.
In May 2024, the CAA agreed to the trial, subject to three phases of work:
Phase A – The acceptance of the IAP by CAA IFP regulators, followed by testing in flight simulators & a live flight test
Phase B – A period of live testing by a limited number of operators
Phase C – Commencement of the full trial to all suitably qualified operators
Phase A
- The procedure was accepted by CAA IFP regulators in December 2024.
- Simulator testing took place in April & June 2025 – attended and accepted by the CAA.
- Live flight test took place in September 2025 – attended and accepted by the CAA.
- Permission to proceed with Phase B received from the CAA in October 2025.
Phase B
- From 13 November 2025, a small number of approved and fully briefed aircraft operators are permitted to fly the trial Runway 03 Instrument Approach Procedure.
- During this phase, the airport will collect data from the flights, which the CAA will use to inform their decision to allow Phase C to commence.
- London Biggin Hill Airport’s Air Traffic Controllers and London Terminal Control have been trained in the new procedures, and a number of other CAA conditions have been actioned by the airport.
Phase C
- Details of Phase C to be confirmed once sufficient data has been collected from Phase B.
What will happen during the trial?
The trial phase will involve:
- Controlled use of the new procedure by participating operators.
- Continuous monitoring of flight paths, altitudes, and noise footprints.
- Engagement with local residents and authorities
- Submission of data to the Civil Aviation Authority for review
All flights using the new approach will continue to operate within strict noise and safety limits.
During the trial, all other Runway 03 arrivals will continue to fly the existing visual approach – illustrated by the gold path on the diagram.
Noise impacts
We understand that aircraft noise is an important topic for our neighbouring communities. London Biggin Hill continues to make every effort to minimise noise impact where possible.
During the trial:
- Aircraft will follow defined and monitored flight paths using precise navigation technology.
- The airport’s Noise & Track Keeping System will record all relevant data as normal.
Next Steps
More information on the trial can be found on the CAA’s Airspace Change Portal.
If you have any feedback or noise complaints associated with the trial, please submit them in the normal manner here.