In 2016, we investigated whether heavy jets could turn left instead of right after departure from Runway 19L (the legacy runway) at night, and whether there were any other options for noise sharing at night.

A number of alternative routes are used for departures from Runway 19L. Data analysis indicated that the departure paths at night are concentrated. Allowing a left turn, or any other noise sharing method, would expose new parts of the community to noise levels above 60 dB(A) at night. This level would be considered ‘potentially significant’ under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.

Our investigation found that the best noise outcome was to maximise the use of reciprocal runway operations at night, and to work with international airlines to ensure maximum use of Runway 01R for departures over the bay.