Airport's noise complaints soar

Most of the 8,000 complaints were about noise

East Midlands Airport (EMA) has received almost 8,000 complaints in the past year - most from just five people worried about noise, the airport said.

Complaints about the airport rose from 4,500 in 2005 to 7,978 in 2006, with almost 60% of last year's complaints generated by a few local residents.

An EMA spokesman said all complaints were taken seriously by the airport.

The spokesman added that fines and surcharges of £42,000 were imposed last year on airlines who broke noise rules.

'Genuine' complaints

"I know the individuals in question and I think they are genuinely concerned about aircraft noise and make complaints," said Neil Robinson, EMA's environment manager.

"The airport treats those complaints very seriously and professionally."

Retired air traffic controller, David Coulson, said he was methodical about registering his complaints.

"Every time I'm disturbed, I note the time down, that's it. It works out at about 150 to 200 times a month."

Mr Robinson said part of the increase in complaints was due to a change in the reporting system.

People are now able to record multiple complaints in one phone call, rather than having to call in several times.