Heathrow’s FlyQuiet League

Figures produced by Heathrow show that the airport’s FlyQuiet League is really having an effect.  Ranking of airlines according to their noise performance, along with Heathrow’s tough limits and restrictions on noise, has successfully encouraged carriers to use their newest fleets at the airport and operate them in quieter ways. The news comes as the League marks its second year anniversary.

Key to the success has been the use of “Continuous Descent Approach” (CDA).  This arrival procedure requires less engine thrust and keeps the aircraft higher for longer, helping to reduce noise.  Since the launch of the FlyQuiet League, Polish operator LOT has almost doubled its use of CDA to 98%.  From July to September this year, 258 out of 263 LOT arrivals used this quieter approach into Heathrow.

The FlyQuiet League has also shown that the aircraft used at the airport over the course of two years are on average newer and quieter.  The latest results from July to September show Finnair’s technological modifications and recertification of its A-321 fleet have made these planes quieter and improved the airline’s score this quarter.

Heathrow plans to become the first large European airport to be free of the old noisy ‘Chapter 3’ with financial incentives.   www.heathrow.com

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