Heathrow announces plan to reduce aircraft noise

The area affected by noise from Heathrow is expected to shrink over the next five years as the airport launches its Noise Action Plan.

The strategy contains 66 actions that Heathrow is taking to manage noise, and was developed following feedback from local people.

The Noise Action Plan sets out how Heathrow is working with airlines to ensure that only the quietest planes use the airport. Negotiations will seek to phase out the older, noisier aircraft by 2015 and landing charges will be reviewed to ensure that airlines are rewarded financially for using quieter planes. Tougher new noise targets will be set for night flights.

Heathrow is also finding new ways to improve operational performance. The airport will also review the amount that airlines are fined if they break noise limits, with all money raised donated to local community initiatives.

The Noise Action Plan was drawn up following a four month consultation in summer 2009, and major changes were made as a result of local feedback. Progress on meeting Noise Action Plan commitments will be independently audited and verified, and open for everyone to see.

Heathrow’s chief operating officer, Terry Morgan said: “We know noise from Heathrow is annoying for people who live close to the airport. While the airport supports jobs and investment, we care about reducing its negative impacts too. This plan sets out practical steps we are taking to manage noise. Our progress in meeting these commitments will be independently verified and published so anyone can hold us to account. I’d like to thank everyone who contributed to the consultation and helped make this a better plan.”

Copies of the Noise Action Plan are being sent to local authorities and MPs and the document is available online at www.heathrow.com/noise.

The Noise Action Plan is a separate document from the review into noise mitigation schemes at Heathrow that is currently ongoing – see www.heathrow.com/consultations for more information.