Quieter

Sustainable Aviation is committed to limiting and, where possible, reducing the impact of aircraft noise. Over the past 50 years, aircraft have reduced their noise output by 75% and this progress continues. Today’s aircraft entering service have on average, a noise footprint that is 30-50% that of the aircraft they are replacing thanks to new engine and airframe design and technology.

Quieter aircraft have been boosted by improved operating techniques, for example Continuous Descent Operations, which occur on 77% of UK arrivals

Using current UK Government noise metrics, there were 12,000 fewer people living in areas where there is significant impact from aircraft noise around the five largest UK airports in 2016 compared to 2014, despite a 13% rise in passenger numbers.

Our Noise Road-Map outlines how will ensure noise from UK aviation will not increase despite a near doubling in flights over the next 40 years. UK aerospace companies are working on 140 new technology projects worth £700 million with a target to reduce noise by 65% by 2050 and airlines will continue to upgrade to quieter aircraft fleets.

We also continue to work with communities to identify and trial new operating techniques, such as steeper approaches, to reduce noise footprints further. The modernisation of our airspace will allow further innovation in operating procedures to reduce noise, including routes designed to enable aircraft to avoid noise-sensitive areas and offering new opportunities for respite.

How future building developments around airports are delivered in a way that prevents any extra aircraft noise issues for communities also remains an active area of interest for Sustainable Aviation.

Our local communities will play a critical role in the future of our industry and our airport members will continue to consult with them on specific local measures to mitigate the impact of noise such as insulation and compensation measures.

Find out more about our work on noise.