23 June 2009

CIAL to investigate aircraft noise legislation proposal

Christchurch International Airport Ltd (CIAL) has today welcomed MP Clayton Cosgrove’s support for the unhindered development of airport operations.  Mr Cosgrove plans to present a Private Member’s Bill to legislate the right of the airport to develop without the threat of having to operate under a curfew.

CIAL Chief Executive Jim Boult said the company looked forward to receiving details of the proposed bill.

“We will be investigating the options raised by Mr Cosgrove’s proposal, which legislates against the rights of landowners to lobby for curfews on airport operations when faced with future noise issues,” said Mr Boult.

“CIAL is naturally concerned with protecting the operating ability of the airport, but it is equally important that residents remain protected from the implications of increasing aircraft noise on their health and wellbeing.”

“While our understanding is that legislation is just as easily removed as it is passed, we look forward to consulting with Mr Cosgrove on this matter when we have been provided with details of the proposal,” he said.