Managing aircraft noise

Our commitment

We need to cater for the changing nature of aircraft operations, air traffic growth, airport expansion and advances in aviation technology, while keeping aviation safety as our first priority.

This requires a careful balance of ensuring safety, operational efficiency, protecting the environment and minimising the effects of aviation noise on the community, wherever practicable.

Our commitment to aircraft noise management
Helicopter on airport tarmac.
Call centre team member.

We hear you

Making a complaint

We manage complaints and enquiries about aircraft noise and operations through our Noise Complaints and Information Service (NCIS). NCIS is the Australian aviation industry’s main interface on aircraft noise and related issues for the community.

Submit a complaint or enquiry

Community tools

View WebTrak

Learn about aircraft in your neighbourhood

Learn about aircraft operations

Melbourne air traffic controller in Air Traffic Control Tower at night-time.

Access our

Airport gateway

We provide information about airport operations, including flight paths, movements, runways, aircraft noise monitoring, investigations and complaints.

Airport gateway

Monitoring and reporting

Aircraft noise monitoring

We undertake long term aircraft noise monitoring at major Australian airports through the world’s largest, most geographically spread system of its type. We also undertake and report on short term aircraft noise monitoring.

Noise monitoring information
Plane wing in the sky.

Our key initiatives

Frequently asked questions

How low can aircraft operate?

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority have regulations for how low aircraft can fly. These regulations require pilots fly no lower than 1,000 feet (ft) over built-up areas, or 500 feet over any other areas, unless they are landing or taking off. Aircraft may be able to fly below these heights in certain situations. More information is available on the CASA website.

What is ground running?

Ground running is when an aircraft engine is tested at the airport while the aircraft is stationary on the ground. Airports are responsible for managing ground running and taking complaints about noise generated by ground running activities. More information about ground running is available on your local airport website.

Can I suggest a noise improvement?

Publications

Download our latest resources

View the latest fact sheets, reports, and other resources.

See all resources

Work with us

Airservices is at the forefront of Australian aviation. We are uniquely connected to all parts of the industry and offer exciting and innovative work across a range of operational and corporate roles.

Career paths on offer at Airservices include
Air Traffic Control, Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting, information technology, corporate support and more.

Find out more