Emirates Achieves Gold Tier in JFK Fly Quiet Programme
Emirates has been awarded Gold Tier recognition in New York JFK Airport’s 2024 Fly Quiet Programme, the only airline to receive this distinction. Emirates scored 92.9, ahead of other carriers participating in the programme.
The Fly Quiet Programme, developed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, is a voluntary initiative that encourages airlines to reduce noise through quieter aircraft, noise-abatement procedures, and preferential runway usage.
The Gold Tier recognition reflects Emirates’ ongoing efforts to manage noise at one of the world’s busiest airports. The airline’s Flight Operations team works closely with the Port Authority to comply with programme requirements. Previous recognitions include Silver Tier status at Newark (EWR) and the Chairperson’s Award at San Francisco (SFO).
Emirates’ fleet maintains noise levels approximately 12 EPNdB below ICAO Chapter 4 standards. Operating wide-body aircraft on long-haul routes allows the airline to carry more passengers with fewer flights, reducing the number of noise events per passenger transported. For example, a single Airbus A380 can carry 500 passengers with one arrival and one departure, while smaller aircraft may require multiple flights, resulting in additional noise events.
Noise management strategy
Emirates’ approach to noise reduction includes:
Compliance with noise procedures and curfews: Flight crews follow Noise Abatement Departure Procedures (NADP) and adhere to airport-specific restrictions.
Use of noise preferential runways: Emirates prioritises runways designed to reduce noise whenever operationally feasible.
Monitoring and accountability: Deviations from procedures trigger reports reviewed to implement improvements.
Fleet management: Emirates operates a fleet meeting or exceeding ICAO noise standards, with ongoing upgrades to maintain performance.
Stakeholder collaboration: The airline engages with regulators, airport authorities, and communities to share best practices and ensure transparency.
This strategy supports quieter operations while maintaining connectivity and efficiency for passengers, and contributes to local communities by reducing noise exposure near airports.
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