Protection of the environment is something which concerns us all, whether on a global scale or at local level. All around the world people are demanding action from politicians to curb emissions, cut pollution and protect natural resources.

This new imperative is evident in the field of noise pollution too, not least at Europe’s airports where local restrictions and procedures try to protect residents from the worst intrusions.

In many countries helicopters come under particular scrutiny, and the latest inquiry has been announced in the UK by the London Assembly. An investigation is to be held into the routing of helicopters in London, the level and management of traffic, and the different types of helicopter used and their noise performance. Assembly member Darren Johnson said: “Anecdotal evidence suggests that helicopter traffic has increased in London in recent years and may continue to do so, particularly during the Olympics. Although there are doubtless those who love the sound of helicopters, there are also many people whose lives are blighted by such noise. We need to determine how much this has increased as well as where and what if anything can be done to tackle it.”

Helicopter owners in the UK are represented by the BHAB, which will be providing its own response to the new inquiry. This organisation takes the safe and acceptable operation of helicopters very seriously and issues advice to its members for different types of operations. It points out that the type of mission upon which a helicopter is engaged has a direct bearing on public reaction. Police or ambulance work seem more acceptable in the eyes of the public than corporate transport. Filming and survey work can also cause problems, especially if the helicopter is either hovering over the same spot for long periods, or is operating in a confined area. Hence there are three different codes of conduct.

Helicopter manufacturers have also applied their R&D resources to noise reduction. Last month at the ILA show in Berlin, for example, Eurocopter were on hand to display the results of their “low noise helicopter” research. The EC155 B1 is fitted with a new 5-blade main rotor with a very low vibration level, and a fenestron tail rotor with 10 blades spaced irregularly around the hub. All this adds up to less noise, some 4.5dB below the latest standards laid down by ICAO, the company says.

At the London inquiry there will be plenty of anecdotal reports from residents about noise intrusion. It will be up to helicopter owners and users to balance this with evidence of the strides made in noise reduction, and the economic importance of the services provided.

A meeting will be held on 13 July at City Hall which members of the public are welcome to attend, or submissions can be sent to the Assistant Scrutiny Manager at: richard.davies@london.gov.uk no later than Friday 16 June.

It is up to you, the helicopter operator, to ensure that the positive aspects of rotary services are given proper consideration. It’s time to take up politics!

David Wright