Formal consultation on the proposed airspace change associated with Spaceport 1, Scolpaig, North Uist will commence on 20 March and close on 24 May 2024. The airspace change application is being managed by ‘change sponsor’ QinetiQ on behalf of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.
As rocket launch poses a risk to aviation, it is necessary to separate launch from all other aviation activity, through the establishment of Special Use Airspace in the form of a Danger Area. The new Danger Area will be activated around the time of launch with other airspace users notified to ensure that they remain clear of the area for their own safety and the safety of others. The airspace change process is the mechanism through with Danger Areas can be established.
All documents associated with the airspace change application can be viewed on the Civil Aviation Authority’s airspace portal.
A drop-in event will be held at Hosta Hall, North Uist on Wednesday 17 April from 1pm to 7.30pm. All are welcome to attend and members of the QinetiQ team will be there to answer any queries on the proposal.
Feedback is welcomed and is an essential part of the airspace change process, as it helps to develop the final airspace design and associated procedures. It also enables the Sponsor to gain a better understanding of stakeholders’ operations and how they might be impacted by the proposed airspace change. Any impacts will be considered and mitigations developed as appropriate to minimise any identified adverse impact(s).
The CAA’s preferred method of providing feedback on airspace change proposals is via the Citizen Space platform. Interested parties can ask questions and provide feedback via the ‘feedback questionnaire’.
Hard copies of the consultation documents and the feedback questionnaire may be requested from the Airspace Change Manager – SP1ACP@QinetiQ.com. Copies are also available for collection from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Balivanich Council Offices, Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5LA.
Completed questionnaires may be returned by email or post to the Spaceport 1 Airspace Change Manager at the Comhairle Offices in Balivanich.