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Public consultation will be held this year over potential alternative flight path options for northerly jet departures from Wellington Airport.
This follows changes to flight paths recommended by Airways New Zealand in December 2022 as part of a new system called the Divergent Missed Approach Protection System (DMAPS).
DMAPs was initiated and developed by Airways, New Zealand’s air navigation service provider, and approved by Wellington Airport. As a result, it has improved the safety, sustainability and efficiency of aircraft operations from Wellington Airport.
While the changes have led to reduced noise impacts for some residents, others have experienced more of a noise impact than expected. In general, it has meant fewer departures over Newlands and more over Khandallah and Broadmeadows.
The potential options to be consulted on will include:
1) Changing the northerly route for jet departures before 7am to fly over less populated areas.
2) Reverting to the northerly route for jet departures used prior to December 2022.
3) Maintaining the status quo.
“We’ve listened to public feedback and as a result we’ve asked Airways to look at this again and develop alternative options,” says Wellington Airport general manager corporate affairs Jenna Raeburn.
“Each option will have different benefits and drawbacks. It is unavoidable that aircraft will fly over residential areas under each option.
“The timing of any final change is still to be confirmed and will depend on which option is selected following consultation.”
Before public consultation begins work is required to:
- allow Airways to design the potential alternative route
- identify any properties that might be affected by this alternative route
- carry out noise modelling
- arrange noise monitors
“Consultation will involve all affected local communities and other stakeholders including airlines.
“We will move as quickly as possible and keep the community informed on next steps.
“Timing is dependent on technical input from Airways, who are responsible for designing and implementing flight path changes.”
