Australian best practice recognised in international report

Australia’s efforts to reduce the impact of aircraft noise and engage with communities on noise issues have been recognised in a report jointly released by the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation and Airports Council International.

The report, Managing the Impacts of Aviation Noise, is a best practice guide for reducing aviation noise and provides airport operators, air navigation service providers, and other aviation stakeholders with the tools to take action.

Airservices Executive General Manager Corporate and Industry Affairs, Ms Mairi Barton, said that Airservices fully supported the report and was pleased to have been able to contribute to its development.

“With the lead role for managing aircraft noise in Australia, Airservices is unique among air traffic control providers around the world,” Ms Barton said.

“Advances in airframe technology and innovations in engine design have led to significant reductions in aircraft noise, in some cases meaning that modern jet aircraft are 55 decibels quieter than the first models that entered service in the 1960s.

“However, for those living around airports, aircraft noise remains a significant issue. We must continue to look at solutions to not only work more collaboratively with communities around airports, community members who are impacted by aircraft noise and industry, but also to learn from international best practice as part of this global challenge.”

The report includes 11 case studies, including four from Australia, which highlight the experience of various countries in dealing with airport noise issues. It also provides solutions and examples of stakeholder collaboration essential to reduce the impacts of aircraft noise.

“These real world examples bring to life the challenges being faced around the world as growth in air travel continues,” Ms Barton said.

“While the four Australian case studies highlight the innovative approach we’ve taken to reducing the impacts of aircraft noise issues in this country, we also recognise that it is only by working together, in collaboration with regulators, industry and communities, and by working across country boundaries, that we can truly address this global challenge.”