Things vary a little in different European countries. What we outline here is what happens in most countries.

I have got a problem with aircraft noise. Who do I complain to?

It is usually the airport you complain to. The airlines are making the noise but they don’t usually deal directly with citizens. It is often useful also to let your member of Parliament know that you are making the complaint.

 

Should I join a local group?

Most airports have local campaign groups which represent residents. They are usually sources of useful information. And you will meet people in the same position as yourself. Together you are stronger!

 

Why do I get planes only some of the time?

There could be a number of reasons for this.

 

Wind direction

Planes nearly always land and take off into the wind. It means a lot of people can get periods without any planes at all.

 

Changing flight paths

If you live close to an airport, you are less likely to get a break from the planes as they need to be lined up with the runway in order to land on it. But if you live further from the airport, the planes landing can fly different routes at different times. On departure, planes can turn in different directions which can mean only people close to the airport get a constant flow of planes.

 

Am I entitled to compensation or mitigation?

You are unlikely to get compensation just for a noise problem. In some countries, though, citizens are entitled to compensation if the noise is a result of a new runway having been built. Different countries have different rules about who is entitled to mitigation (that is, help with installing things like double-glazed windows). The closer you live to the airport, the more likely you are to get mitigation.

 

Will the noise stop?

Probably not, unless the airport closes. They are things though you can campaign for to lessen its impact: an annual cap (limit) on the number of planes using the airport; an end to night flights; alternation of flight paths so the noise is shared around; the use of the best operational practices; the provision of mitigation measures.