We have launched a new campaign with Christine Jardine MP and Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP to introduce a new limit on the number of night time flights at Edinburgh Airport.

Edinburgh Airport has launched a new consultation on a draft noise action plan. This includes a range of measures to minimise and mitigate aircraft noise.

However, the draft plan retains the current practice of an unlimited number of night time flights (between 2330-0600). Other major airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted already have limits imposed on night time flying by the UK Government.

 In launching the campaign, we know Christine Jardine will be writing to households around the airport to encourage residents to respond to the consultation and support a new limit. 

Limits on the number of night time flights been in place at a number of other major UK airports for many years. However, there are no such restrictions at Edinburgh Airport. Whilst we all want to see the airport thrive, that can’t be at the expense of those living in the community and their ability to get a good night’s sleep.

 The airport is forecast to grow considerably over the coming years. A new limit on night time flights would go a long way to show that growth will be managed responsibly.

The airport does a lot of good work to mitigate the noise from aircraft.  However, the latest traffic figures show the number of night time flights are increasing. This is often the most disturbing parts of the airport’s operation.

 As councillors, we will be bringing forward a motion to the next meeting of the City of Edinburgh Council in a bid to get cross party councillor support for a new limit.

 Given its commitment to being a responsible neighbour, now is the time for the airport to adopt a new night time limit which is at least as stringent as seen at other major airports. We hope other councillors will support this later this month.