Overview

We understand aircraft noise is a concern for many who live near Sydney Airport or under flight paths.

That’s why we’re working closely with the community, government, and the aviation industry to better manage its impact. As flight numbers continue to grow, we will continue to listen.

Watch Film

Noise management principles

Sydney Airport supports the Sydney Airport Community Forum and ICAO’s “Balanced Approach” to aircraft noise management — a global best-practice framework built on four key principles.

Reduction of noise at source

Reduction of noise at source

Phasing out older, noisier aircraft in favour of quieter, more efficient models.

Better land use and planning

Better land use and planning

The use of land surrounding an airport should be carefully planned and managed to minimise the impact of aircraft noise on the community.

Improved noise abatement operational procedures

Improved noise abatement operational procedures

Preferential runways, flight paths, and pilot noise-abatement procedures help minimise and fairly share aircraft noise around Sydney Airport.

Operational restrictions

Operational restrictions

Restrictions on certain aircraft types and limitations on runway use and operating hours.

How we’re helping
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    Quieter aircraft

    We support airlines adopting new, quieter, and more fuel-efficient planes.

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    Noise sharing

    Rotating runway use to spread noise more evenly, and maximising flights over Botany Bay.

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    Improved ground operations

    We have introduced new guidelines under our new Airport Environment Strategy to manage aircraft engine testing and respond to ground-based noise complaints.

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    Transparent information

    We provide easy-to-understand, accurate information on predicted noise impacts, including flight path maps, aircraft noise frequency, and quiet periods.

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    Planning for the future

    We’re preparing for changes in flight patterns around Sydney Airport as Western Sydney International Airport opens.

Resources

Read the Noise Management Fact Sheet, explore the full draft Master Plan, and find out how you can have your say.

Fact Sheet

Noise Management

PDF, 0.17 MB

Draft Document

Master Plan 2045

PDF, 38.87 MB