Perth Resident Dominates Aircraft Noise Complaints

In Perth, Australia, a single resident has lodged over 21,000 complaints about aircraft noise in 2023, accounting for nearly half of such complaints nationwide. This prolific record was disclosed during a Senate inquiry into the impact of aircraft noise on urban and regional areas. The individual's identity remains unknown.

According to Aeroservices Australia, the federal agency overseeing air traffic, the number of complaints has tripled since 2019, with 51,589 complaints filed in 2023. Notably, more than 30,000 of these complaints came from just five individuals, including the prolific complainant from Perth.

The Perth resident averaged 60 complaints a day, highlighting the significant concern about aircraft noise in the region. In contrast, the next most frequent complainant, based in Brisbane, lodged just over 4,000 complaints. This situation is part of a global issue, with airports like London's Heathrow imposing restrictions to manage noise.

In response to noise concerns, airports worldwide have implemented various measures, from curfews to caps on flights. These restrictions aim to balance the needs of the aviation industry with the well-being of local communities. Despite such efforts, noise complaints have continued to rise in Australia.