Defence Aircraft Noise

Flight Paths

All aircraft fly within a corridor known as a flight path, rather than along a precise straight line. Factors such as aircraft type, weight and weather conditions can determine how precisely aircraft fly within these corridors.

Wind speed and direction are the main factors in determining which runways are used at airports or military airfields, in which direction aircraft can safely take off and land, and which flight paths are used.

Civil Flight Paths

Airservices Australia is responsible for the management and control of the flight paths used by aircraft approaching and departing from major civil airports. In most cases, aircraft fly approved flight paths that have been developed over time in consultation with government, councils and residents.

The design of flight paths around military airfields include many of the same considerations and requirements as those around civil airports. Air Force works closely with Airservices Australia to ensure that civil and military flight paths are complementary. However, traffic patterns around military airfields are different from major civil airports.

Military Flight Paths

When training is in progress, military aircraft will conduct circuits around the airfield to practice landing and take-off procedures. Notably, the number of circuits flown is in decline with the introduction of advanced military flight simulators.

Air traffic controllers keep aircraft at safe distances from each other in the air and on the ground, while arranging them in a sequence for landing and take-offs along organised flight paths.

When flying in formation, multiple aircraft may take-off in pairs or in close succession, increasing the noise impact for a short period. The most efficient way for a formation of aircraft to land is through the initial and pitch manoeuvre where aircraft enter the circuit area at high speed and separate themselves for landing, one at a time.

Where possible, Air Force is committed to providing information to and consulting with stakeholders and the community on any changes to flight paths.