NATS has been implementing a programme of "Continuous Descent" to enable planes to fly a smooth, continuous descent into an airport, instead of a series of steps. This results in quieter, more fuel-efficient landings. NATS has continued to refine its continuous descent approaches, expanding it to 14 airports across the UK, working with 22 airlines to make this operation more widespread.
The Continuous Descent Campaign is reducing aircraft noise for many communities around airports — achieving an additional 32,070 quieter arrivals in 2016 over 2015.
NATS' efforts with the Continuous Descent Approach (CDA) Outreach Programme were recognised, for the third year in a row, via a Responsible Business award from Business in the Community.
See https://www.nats.aero/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/NATS-Responsible-Business-Report-2016-17.pdf for further details.