New noise authority proposed by Airports Commission

7th February, 2014

One of the few positives from the interim report of the Airports Commission is that an “independent” body on noise be set up.  The report says (para 5.79):

“The Commission therefore recommends that an independent body be established with a duty to provide statutory advice to the Government and CAA on issues relating to aircraft noise. The Government and the CAA should be required to publish their reasoning in any cases where their decisions diverge from the advice provided by the body.”

This is the subject of debate among the various airport campaign groups. There are concerns that the body will be purely advisory and have no teeth. Also, that it may not have a remit to reduce noise.  The debate will continue!