EU Council Directive 92/14/EEC amended by 98/20/EC regulates the operation of jet aircraft within the territories of the member states. The combined effect of these directives means that aircraft are not permitted to operate at an airport within the State as from 1 April 1995, unless there is in force in respect of that aircraft a noise certificate issued by the relevant authority – the IAA in the case of Irish registered aircraft.
This noise certificate must certify that the noise made by the aircraft is not greater than the noise levels specified chapter three, of annex 16 to the Chicago convention. However, a number of exemptions in these directives allow chapter two aircraft to continue in operation until April 2002.
EU Council Regulation 925/1999 which came into force on 4 May 2000 restricts the operation within the European Union of hushkitted aircraft which meet the ICAO chapter three noise levels. The net effect is to limit the introduction of more of these aircraft into Europe. However, existing aircraft may continue in operation.
I have been informed that Aer Rianta has established communication facilities at its airports in respect of noise issues and other matters and there is ongoing dialogue in this regard. While I am aware of complaints from residents near the airport regarding noise pollution, I cannot bring forward the date agreed for the phase out of chapter two aircraft as this would be contrary to the EU legislation that I have mentioned above.
My Department does not have a list of the capital cities of the EU, if any, that allow or prohibit aircraft complying with chapter two noise requirements from landing.
