The airport’s Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) includes a commitment to install a permanent and temporary network of noise-monitoring stations at suitable locations across the region. Airservices Australia will collect data ahead of a mandated review of the flight paths.
Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, who has long pushed for noise monitoring, said the community now has an important opportunity to see and hear what the new flight paths could mean for them.
“The data collected will be crucial in ensuring accuracy in noise modelling and in informing any future changes to the flight paths,” Ms Templeman said. “Many in the community, including myself, have fought for this monitoring. Now is the time for residents to get involved.”
Airservices Australia will hold a series of local community drop-in sessions where residents can listen to predicted noise, ask questions about noise-abatement procedures, and register to take part in the monitoring program.
An online session will also be held on Monday 25 August for those unable to attend in person. Registration is via Airservices Australia’s website.
New conditions added in June will see Reciprocal Runway Operations become the default mode at night, aiming to reduce overflights above populated areas. The Federal Government has described the WSI measures as the most comprehensive noise-management framework for any Australian airspace project.
Despite these changes, Ms Templeman said she remained concerned about the potential impact on Hawkesbury communities.
“There will be profound effects on my community as a result of these flight paths,” she said.
“I am committed to continuing the fight for fairness and for improvements where possible.”
Residents can explore the predicted noise impacts for their area using the Aircraft Overflight Noise Tool, an interactive map showing projected flight paths, noise exposure levels, and overflight frequency.
Access the tool here: www.wsiflightpaths.gov.au
