Heathrow is expecting to cut flight delays as a result of its new time based separation initiative.

The scheme, called a 'world first' by air navigation provider Nats, will see the airport managing the arrival of aircraft using the amount of time between flights, rather than distance. This will be particularly useful during periods of strong wind, which cause planes to fly more slowly.

Under the current system, flights are separated by set distances, depending on the size of the aircraft and the amount of turbulence it creates as it flies. During heavy wind, this can cause delays due to planes having to slow down, creating a backlog behind them.

The new scheme is expected to shave off 80,000 minutes of delay time per year and will also reduce the need for airlines to cancel services.

Derek Provan, Heathrow director of airside operations, hailed the new system and commented: "It will help us keep flights landing safely and on time during strong headwinds - ultimately benefitting passengers and local communities."

Time based separation will be introduced at the airport in spring 2015.