Flight Updates
by Text
Noise Exposure Forecast (NEF)
The Noise Exposure Forecast (NEF) estimates disturbance levels in the areas near the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport and along the flight paths. The NEF model has been used by airports across Canada and is both well established and well tested. The model calculates disturbance levels by examining noise levels produced from the frequency and mix of aircraft at given altitudes, and the time of day at which the noise occurs. The model weighs nighttime disturbances almost 17 times greater than day-time movement.
NEF is described in the form of noise exposure contours, based on a scale from 0-40. The NEF contours for Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport indicate the following contours:
- NEF 40 is closest to the airport and generally has little residential land use.
- NEF 35 encompasses older neighbourhoods developed prior to land use planning considerations. Frequent disturbances are anticipated in these neighbourhoods. Aircraft noise is anticipated to rise above background levels.
- NEF 30 encompasses older neighbourhoods developed prior to land use planning considerations. Moderate disturbances from aircraft operations are anticipated .
- NEF 25 includes areas where aircraft noise on average is slightly below background levels.
Transport Canada does not recommend new developments within the NEF 30-40 zones.
In the case of Winnipeg, the contours have reduced since 1979, as a result of quieter aircraft and the development and implementation of noise abatement procedures.
Monitoring Program
WAA’s Aeronautical Noise Management Program incorporates a monitoring component. The intent of the Monitoring program is to measure the effectiveness of existing procedures and other aspects of the management program, and to identify aircraft operations that are not in compliance with regulations designed to mitigate noise.
The Noise Reporting Line
A 24-hour Noise Reporting Line was established in 1990 to allow citizens to contact Airport personnel by telephone with questions or comments regarding noise levels at Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport. Citizens may call the Noise Reporting Line anytime to request information or comment on a specific operation. The Noise Reporting Line phone number is (204) 987-9403.
Flight Tracking
The WAA flight tracking system is designed to track aircraft arriving and departing Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport. This tool enables WAA to identify aircraft associated with noise disturbances, and any aircraft or carrier that may not be operating consistently with the regulations.
WAA forwards identified deviations from the designated flight track to Transport Canada for investigation. There are relatively few aircraft deviations and the majority of those occur for acceptable reasons such as to avoid inclement weather (i.e. thunder storms), flocks of birds or even to maintain separation distances from other aircraft in the area.
