Leo Docherty MP met with Farnborough Airport CEO, Simon Geere, to discuss the Airport's proposed changes to their operations.
The proposals, which are subject to public consultation, include;
- Increasing the annual flight upper limit from 50,000 to 70,000 flights per year to meet the projected demand by 2040;
- Increasing the current annual non-weekday (i.e. weekends and Bank Holidays) flight upper limit from 8,900 to 18,900 flights per year;
- Changing operating hours on non-weekdays from 8am-8pm to 7am-9pm to reduce congestion at either end of the day.
Leo has been encouraging residents to engage in the Airport's consultation, to attend the drop-in events, and to share their views with him, via his website. During the meeting, Leo shared with Mr Geere the initial thoughts and concerns expressed to him by constituents about the Airport's proposals.
Commenting following the meeting, Leo said: "There are clear benefits outlined in the proposals, through increased local employment and economic growth, but there are also areas residents are understandably concerned about, such as environmental impacts and noise pollution.
"I am grateful to Simon Geere for taking the time to speak with me about the Airport's proposals and to listen to the views and concerns of my constituents.
"While the consultation remains open, everyone should have their say on this matter, and that is why I am encouraging everyone to make a submission to the Airport's consultation hub."
You can find more about the proposals and how to make a submission here.