Becoming Less Noisy
Thanks to technology, today's aircraft are 50% quieter than 10 years ago. Research initiatives target a further 50% reduction by 2020.
The number of people exposed to aircraft noise worldwide has gone down – by about 35% between 1998 and 2004.
Chapter 4 Standard - One Third Quieter
On 1 January 2006, a more stringent noise certification standard (pdf, 72kb) - Chapter 4 - was introduced, for new aircraft designs. Chapter 4 aircraft are at least one third quieter than those currently certified to the Chapter 3 standard.
Implementing a Balanced Approach to Aircraft Noise Management
ICAO's Balanced Approach (pdf, 110kb) provides a transparent process for identifying a specific noise problem at an airport and then evaluating four types of measures to reduce noise, to see how the maximum environmental benefit can be achieved, most cost effectively.
IATA worked closely with ICAO's Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP) to develop guidance material on the Balanced Approach, which ICAO has urged all regulators worldwide to implement.
IATA Policy on Night Time Operational Restrictions
Night time operational restrictions are increasing, especially in Europe. At some airports, night flights are completely banned. These restrictions can have a serious impact on the economy, next-day delivery services, home-based charters, freight services and intercontinental flights. They can also increase daytime congestion.
IATA has developed a policy on night flights (pdf, 65.2kb). When appropriate, IATA assists its Member Airlines with lobbying efforts in response to proposed restrictions.
IATA Supports ICAO's Work
IATA and its Environment Committee (ENCOM) provide noise-related policy input to ICAO and CAEP, ensuring airline views are represented at meetings and in ICAO decisions.
See also IATA Environmental Review 2004, part 1, "Towards a quieter future".