Five changes have been made in relation to flight paths at the Western Sydney International Airport.
The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Western Sydney International Airport’s preliminary flight paths has been released today.
The report follows months of consultation with stakeholders and the community to balance the growth of the airport with the needs of the community on the ground.
Five changes have been made from the draft EIS to minimise the impact of aircraft noise, particularly at night. In addition to the two flight path changes that have already been announced and consulted on, this includes the removal of one flight path and refinements to others.
These changes are now available for the community to view through the online Aircraft Overflight Noise Tool.
“The Minister for the Environment and Water will now consider the final EIS and advise me on whether the preliminary flight paths should be approved, and if so, whether any conditions should be applied to the approval,” Infrastructure and Transport Minister Catherine King said.
“During the public exhibition of the draft EIS, my department received over 8,400 submissions, with each and every one being considered in finalising the EIS.
“This feedback has been crucial to ensuring the airport delivers lasting benefits while balancing the needs of the community, environment, industry and users of the broader Greater Sydney airspace.”
Macquarie MP Susan Templeman said it will take time to absorb the EIS.
“While a number of significant changes have been made in response to concerns raised, the fact remains that the Final EIS confirms that several flight paths impact the region, including at night,” she said.
“There is a preferred option included that directs night flights away from most of the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury, which was made public in August. Use of that route is subject to safety and weather considerations.”
The EIS can be viewed at http://www.wsiflightpaths.gov.au.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.