Leeds Bradford Airport Proposes Shift to Noise-Based Night Flights

Leeds Bradford Airport has submitted proposals to Leeds City Council to replace its current movement-based night flight restrictions with a noise-based system. The airport aims to encourage the use of quieter, fuel-efficient aircraft by capping noise levels rather than the total number of flights. The proposal includes updating defined night-time hours to 11:30 p.m. to 5:59 a.m. to align with other UK regional airports.

These changes are part of the LBA:REGEN investment programme, which features a £200 million terminal extension and a commitment to net zero carbon emissions by 2030. To mitigate the impact on residents, the airport introduced a Night Noise Insulation Scheme providing grants for glazing and ventilation. Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy welcomed the modernization as positive for the regional economy.

The Group for Action on Leeds Bradford Airport (GALBA) is opposing the plans, claiming the changes would remove limits on departures starting at 6 a.m. and significantly increase flight volume. GALBA chair Nick Hodgkinson argues that the summer night flight cap could rise from 3,741 to at least 7,500. The group is currently reviewing the application and seeking legal advice, citing concerns over air quality, climate change, and the health of local residents.