The total number of contacts the NCIS received in 2022-23 was 45,720. This was 14,855 more than the recorded 30,865 in 2021-22 (48% increase in contacts Australia wide).

At major airports, the most frequently raised issue continued to be the use of standard flight path corridors. Concerns included the increase in frequency of movements, a perception that something had changed the location of the flight path, and questions about the altitudes of aircraft on arrival and departure. While we investigate concerns about standard flight paths, few opportunities exist to mitigate noise for residential areas in close proximity to the major airports.

Table 20 shows that during 2022-23, 7 major airports had an increase in the number of residents making complaints, which was 23% higher than 2021-22, with significant increases at Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth airports. The main contributor to the increase is the return to pre-pandemic level operations across the country and seasonal wind changes.

Brisbane Airport also had a significant increase in contacts towards the end of 2022-23. The NCIS received 1,941 contacts in quarter 3 (January to March), compared to 2,860 in quarter 4 (April to June). Multiple factors contributed to the sudden spike in contacts during the last quarter of 2022-23. These included the implementation of a Noise Action Plan for Brisbane, weather diversions, air traffic management and the return to pre-pandemic level operations.

While not listed in the 10 major airports, Sunshine Coast Airport complainant numbers increased 26% in 2022-23, with 187 noise complainants; the main contributors was community feedback to the Post Implementation Review Draft Report and aircraft movements outside tower hours.

Table 20 – Number of residents who contacted the NCIS for the 10 major airports