The airport has introduced Area Navigation technology for departing flights leaving the airport from the westerly runway, guiding aircraft away from built-up areas.
The introduction of the RNAV1 technology follows approval of the airport’s Airspace Change Proposal by the Civil Aviation Authority earlier this year.
Trials carried out in 2013 found that the introduction of RNAV technology reduced the number of people over flown by 79% and will lead to annual savings of 290 tonnes of fuel and 885 tonnes of CO2.
Airport operations director Neil Thompson said: “For over ten years we have been working with airlines, NATS and the CAA to look at ways track-keeping can be improved to help reduce the number of people over flown.”
Now the airport wants to gain CAA approval to use the same technology on its other arrival and departure routes.
Luton South MP Gavin Shuker said: “London Luton is setting the standard for airport noise management in the UK.
“As part of its £100 million development programme the airport will adopt some of the most stringent noise controls in the country. Working closely with community groups the airport is also putting in place additional voluntary measures to address local concerns such as RNAV1.
“These are positive steps in balancing the need of local residents and boosting the economy which a growing airport will deliver.”
