Rīga Airport is proposing changes to its noise reduction plan, seeking input from residents through April 22nd, Latvian Television reported on March 24th.
Shifting Flight Paths to Reduce Noise
Currently, two-thirds of all aircraft arriving and departing from Rīga Airport do so in a northerly direction. However, seven times more people reside north of the airport than south of it. To address this imbalance, the airport plans to increase the number of takeoffs and landings occurring on the southern side, dispersing noise over a less populated area.
The proposed changes similarly include a stipulation that aircraft taking off northward at night will utilize the full runway length. This is intended to allow planes to reach higher altitudes more quickly, thereby reducing noise levels closer to the ground.
Airport officials are actively monitoring flights over the villages of Jaunmārupe and Vētra, located south of the airport. Jānis Brižs, an environmental noise management specialist at Riga Airport, explained that any instances of flights over these villages will be analyzed, and discussions will be held with “Latvian Air Traffic” to minimize such occurrences.
Collaboration with Air Traffic Control
The airport is also planning training for air traffic controllers at “Latvian Air Traffic.” These controllers determine the direction, route, and altitude of aircraft, all of which can impact noise levels in surrounding communities.
Information regarding the proposed changes to the “Airport Action Plan for Noise Reduction” is available on the Riga Airport website. Airport representative Ilze Salna stated that the airport welcomes suggestions and feedback from residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many residents live in the municipality where the airport is located?
The airport is located in Mārupe Municipality, which is home to 40,800 residents.
What proportion of flights currently arrive and depart in a northerly direction?
Currently, two-thirds of all aircraft arrive and depart in a northerly direction.
When is the deadline for submitting feedback on the proposed changes?
The airport is accepting feedback and suggestions until April 22nd.
Will these proposed changes effectively reduce noise pollution for residents living near the airport remains to be seen, and will likely depend on the level of community engagement and the implementation of the latest procedures.
