Southampton Airport is extending its 'Noise Preferred
Routeing Trials' until the end of March 2006. The trials, which were
due to stop at the end of the year, look at aircraft take off and
landing procedures with a view to reducing aircraft noise for residents.
The extension has been made to allow for a longer period of evaluation, since the radar which tracks aircraft routeing has been out of operation. The radar, which has no bearing on aircraft safety, is owned and operated by National Air Traffic Services (NATS) and not Southampton Airport. The radar was expected to start working again from December 17, giving a further three months to measure the trials’ success.
David Cumming, Managing Director at Southampton Airport, said: "We are constantly striving to find ways of minimising noise for local residents. The Noise Preferred Routeing Trials are a proactive example of the measures we are taking to do this. By extending the deadline, we hope to have a longer period in which to observe the effectiveness of the trials. It will also give local people more time to consider whether or not their experiences of aircraft noise have improved, and I am very keen to hear their feedback."
The trial routeings have been put together in consultation with a technical working group which includes representatives from Eastleigh Borough Council, Southampton City Council, Winchester City Council and Hampshire County Council. Once the trials are over, aircraft will revert to the standard routeing, which is set out in a 'Flying Controls Agreement' with Eastleigh Borough Council.
Residents wishing to find out more can call the Community Comment Line on 023 8062 7070 or click here.
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- Airport routeing trials extended
28th March 2025