Sunbury residents are being invited to have their say on how aircraft noise will be managed when Melbourne Airport’s planned third runway comes into operation in 2031.
The airport is developing a draft noise sharing plan to guide how runways are used outside of peak periods. The plan is a condition of the federal government’s approval of the new north–south runway and aims to balance growth in air traffic with the wellbeing of nearby communities.
Independent consultants Trax Asia Pacific and GHD are leading the work, which will examine different operating modes for runway use. These could include alternating between the existing east–west runway and both north–south runways when weather and traffic levels allow. The intention is to give communities regular periods of respite from aircraft noise rather than spreading flights equally.
Melbourne Airport third runway executive director, Peter Lellyett, said community input would play a key role in shaping the draft plan.
“We know that aircraft noise can impact quality of life, and this plan is about managing that impact thoughtfully,” he said.
Formal engagement will begin in October 2025, with both online and face-to-face sessions. A draft plan is expected to be released for community review in mid to late 2026 before being submitted to the federal government in early 2027.
More information, including fact sheets, is available at Melbourne Airport’s Major Projects Hub: www.melbourneairportprojectshub.com.au.