Aircraft on the ground at sunset

Management of Aircraft Noise at Gamston Airport

 

Gamston Aviation Ltd., continually strives to operate the airport in such a manner so as to minimise, as far as possible, any negative impacts on our neighbours, arising from the aircraft using the airport.

 

Noise impact is carefully considered, whenever operational, or commercial decisions are taken, regarding the functioning of the airport. As Gamston Aviation Ltd. (Airport Operator), does not fly aircraft, we ensure all the official published information for pilots specifically requests that they avoid overflying Gamston village, Elkesely, Eaton and West Drayton. This is well understood by our resident-based pilots, but it is also made clear to visiting pilots from elsewhere. This doesn’t mean aircraft will never fly over these locations, but every effort is made to highlight noise sensitive communities and avoid this occurring on a regular basis.

However, it should be noted that the conduct of any flight, is solely under the control of the pilot in command of the aircraft. Gamston Aviation Ltd. has no authority to direct, or control the aircraft whilst in flight. However, we do seek to stress the importance of complying with our noise abatement procedures and where these are not adhered to, we will bring this to the attention of the pilot in question. The current construction at the airport has resulted in some changes to regular flight paths.

 

If you would like to talk to us about aircraft noise at Gamston, please submit your inquiry using our contact form.

 

If you wish to file a comment, or noise complaint, please use our contact page.

 

We cannot log a complaint via telephone.

 

All noise complaints are recorded and logged. To ensure we can do this appropriately and to enable us to map where noise issues may arise, we do ask that you provide your name, address, time and date of the occurrence and any additional relevant details regarding the aircraft. This enables us to identify the aircraft and pilot in question and where relevant, bring the matter to their attention. These details will remain confidential to Gamston Aviation Ltd., and will not be disclosed to any third parties. If you wish to receive a response to your complaint, or comment, please also provide an email address.

 

It is also noteworthy that Section 79(6) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 specifically exempts aircraft noise from the general noise nuisance controls which exist under that legislation, and that Section 76 of the Civil Aviation Act 1982 exempts an aircraft that was being flown in accordance with the regulations governing aircraft flight from prosecution for trespass or nuisance.

 

However, if you believe that a flight was conducted contrary to those regulations, then a complaint can be filed on-line with the Civil Aviation Authority who has the power to investigate (search for CAA Form FCS1520).

Runway Reopening September 2022

If you’re a regular airport visitor, or have been near the site over the past couple of months, you would’ve noticed a flurry of construction activity, plus a reduction in aviation activity.

 

Gamston Aviation Ltd was acquired by automotive testing and research organisation, Thatcham Research in December 2021. Under new ownership and a multi-million-pound investment, we have entered an exciting new chapter. The ultimate ambition for the site is to a create centre of excellence for future mobility solutions, where automotive and aviation will co-exist together.

 

As part of Thatcham Research’s investment, we are in the process of conducting substantial upgrades and much needed improvements at the aerodrome to enhance safe operations. The current phase of construction has required the temporary closure of the main runway from June 20th 2022, with flying activity transferring to our alternative runway where only limited, or exceptional flying activity is permitted.

Flying Activity

If you wish to make any comment regarding flying activity from Retford (Gamston) Airport, we have introduced a new contact form which will ensure your question is received by the appropriate person.