Environment

Noise abatement

Aircraft noise has been a cause of concern for local communities. In addition to being a source of annoyance, prolonged exposure to loud noise can adversely affect health. Our investments in advanced technology and latest generation aircraft have placed us as a global industry leader in terms of noise abatement. We are proud to share that 85% of our fleet is compliant with Chapter 14 limits set by ICAO, which are currently the most stringent for noise abatement - roughly 17EPNdB lower than Chapter 3 aircraft and 7EPNdB lower than Chapter 4 aircraft. Our latest generation aircraft are 50% quieter10 than the older generation aircraft.

Aircraft noise certification

During the aircraft type certification process, aircraft are certified for noise levels in compliance with the applicable noise standards, as defined in ICAO Annex 16, Volume I. The primary purpose of noise certification is to ensure that the latest available noise reduction technology is incorporated into aircraft design and that this is demonstrated by procedures that are relevant to daily operations. This aims to ensure that noise reduction offered by technology is reflected in overall noise reduction around airports.

ICAO noise standards11

Over the years, noise limits have been established by ICAO taking into account the noise reduction achieved for individual aircraft as a result of technological improvements. Newer and more stringent noise limits have fostered the development of quieter aircraft.

For jets, the noise limits in ICAO Annex 16, Volume I are referred to as Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, and Chapter 14. Depending on the year the type certificate is submitted, aircraft must comply with the limits as defined in these Chapters.