Stansted Airport has launched a public consultation on a new take-off procedure today (September 1) that will reduce aircraft noise for more than 4,000 people living near the airport.

The new performance based navigation procedure uses modern Global Positioning System (GPS) technology that enables aircraft to fly flight paths more accurately when taking off from the airport.

Results from a trial on two of the airport’s existing departure routes showed that 85% fewer people were directly overflown by aircraft using the new procedure.

The airport has been working on the initiative for two years and is now seeking views from the local community to help shape its final proposal before submission to the Civil Aviation Authority for approval.

Andrew Harrison, Stansted’s managing director, said: “We all look forward to hearing the feedback from the community about this innovative project which demonstrates significant and positive improvements for local residents around the airport.”

Keith Artus, chairman of the Environmental Issues Group from the Stansted consultive committee, said: “We feel the noise and environmental benefits from this project are considerable and urge our local communities to look at the achievements and facts provided in the consultation materials and make their responses accordingly.”

The consultation runs for 12 weeks until November 27, and more information can be found at: www.stanstedairport.com/consultation