by Peter Barnett

An in-depth public consultation with local residents over night flying times at Manston airport has been promised by Thanet council.

Kent International Airport owners Infratil want the flight window at the former Battle of Britain airfield to be formally adopted as 6am to 11.30pm, that’s an hour earlier and half an hour later than the existing arrangements.

Infratil is also looking to introduce a formal noise quota system. This is used by many UK airports including Bournemouth and Bristol to restrict the amount of night-time noise generated by the operation of an airport. The current system in place at KIA requires operators of the noisiest aircraft types to contribute to a community fund. The penalties double each time the same registered aircraft operates between 11pm and 7am, which is a system unique to KIA.

KIA chief executive Matt Clarke said: “Our aim is to provide the airport with a level playing field which will enable us to develop the business and maximise the economic benefits to Thanet. Presently we are competing at a significant disadvantage with unique restrictions not applicable to other airports.

“It is not widely known that an element of the current system means that regular operators face a potential bill of over £4 million a year if just one flight per month suffers a delay.

“ It is not hard to see why a regime like that adds difficulty to attracting new business and we are pleased to be able to work with the council and the community to agree to appropriate controls which provide a workable balance between airport growth and environmental restrictions.”

Cllr Mike Harrison, chairman of the council’s overview and scrutiny committee airport working party, said: “I am determined that there will be a full and open consultation process that will include drop-in sessions for residents. If the proposal is agreed it will bring Manston into line with most other airports in the UK.”

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