Wellington Airport has initiated a public consultation process to gather feedback on potential new flight path options for northerly jet departures.
This move comes in response to changes implemented in 2022, which have significantly altered the noise landscape for residents in surrounding areas.
The 2022 modifications form part of the Divergent Missed Approach Protection System (DMAPS). This led to a reduction in departures over Newlands but increased flight activity over Khandallah and Broadmeadows.
While these changes brought welcome relief to some residents, others have experienced a noticeable uptick in aircraft noise. Recognizing the diverse impacts on local communities, the airport is now seeking public input to shape future flight path decisions.
Four Options Under Consideration
Wellington Airport has proposed four distinct options for consideration:
- Maintain current jet flight paths
- Modify the northerly route for pre-7am jet departures to fly between Horokiwi and Korokoro
- Alter the northerly route for jet departures to a path similar to that used before December 2022, over Newlands Ridge
- Explore additional proposals raised through the public engagement process
Jenna Raeburn, Wellington Airport’s General Manager of Corporate Affairs, emphasized the importance of community feedback in this process. “The changes made in 2022 were implemented with good intentions, enhancing both safety and efficiency,” Raeburn stated.
“However, we’ve been attentive to public feedback and are eager to hear views on these different proposals. It’s important to note that each option comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and it’s unavoidable that flights will pass over residential areas under any scenario.”
Key Considerations for Residents
Several crucial points warrant attention as residents weigh in on the proposed changes:
- The flight paths under discussion apply only to departures, not arrivals
- The airport uses the northerly departure route when wind blows from a northerly direction, which occurs approximately two-thirds of the time
- The 2022 changes are part of the DMAPS system, which was developed by Airways (New Zealand’s air navigation service provider) and approved by Wellington Airport and the Civil Aviation Authority
How to Participate in the Consultation
Wellington Airport has made participation in this crucial decision-making process accessible to all affected residents:
- A short online survey is available until 5pm on Friday, October 11
- Residents in potentially affected suburbs will receive information via mail
- Detailed background information, including noise monitoring reports, can be accessed at this link.
Looking Ahead
Should the consultation process result in a recommendation for change, the proposal will undergo further evaluation by Airways and the Civil Aviation Authority.
The timeline for implementing any potential changes would depend on the specific option chosen and would require careful coordination with these agencies.
Raeburn concluded, “We are committed to a thorough and transparent consultation process. Our goal is to find a solution that balances the needs of our operations with the well-being of our neighboring communities.”
“We encourage all residents to participate and share their perspectives on these important decisions that will shape Wellington’s aviation future.”
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