Aircraft noise is becoming a problem for more and more people. The reason is quite simple: there are more planes than ever before using UK airports. It means that new flight paths have been created, so that people who didn’t have a problem with aircraft noise problem before now have one. It also means that for those people who always have had a problem, it has become worse. This big increase in the number of planes has cancelled out the gains that might have come about from the fact that individual aircraft have become a lot quieter over the pat 25 years.

How do I go about getting something done about aircraft noise?

Unless you have a problem with a small aerodrome, it is almost impossible for an individual to get something done about aircraft noise. You are best to join a group or, if there isn’t one in your area, look to form one.

Why is it so difficult for an individual to get something done about aircraft noise?

You will usefully find yourself up against some very powerful opponents. The Department for Transport favours a big expansion of aviation. The aviation industry – the airlines and airport owners – also want it. And you will find that in some areas local authorities are part-owners of airports (although some local councils, particularly around London and the South East, tend to oppose airport expansion and can be helpful).

So what should I do if I have an aircraft noise problem?

It is best to join an action group. You can find out what action groups exist by contacting AirportWatch – email info@airportwatch.org.uk; tel 0207 248 2227; If you are getting problems from an airfield or from military aircraft, best to contact the Aviation Environment Federation – email info@aef.org.uk ; tel 0207 248 2223. Worth checking out both organisations’ websites which are both full of useful information – including briefing sheets – about aviation. www.airportwatch.org.uk and www.aef.org.uk

UK Noise Association, PO BOX 551

Chatham, Kent ME4 9AJ

Tel: 01634 863 852 www.ukna.org.uk info@ukna.org.uk

Briefing Sheets: Aircraft Noise—What Can I Do?