The Mackay Port Authority has released details of a major environmental survey that examined more than 15 million pieces of information in a bid to gauge aircraft noise levels over the city.

Data was collected from a total of 54 sites during the three month investigation.

An increase in passenger aircraft is having little impact on residents

MPA environmental manager Scott Keane said the results confirmed earlier views that aircraft noise was causing little impact in the community.

“The information will now serve as a baseline study and will be used in future airport assessments,” he said.

“The results of the survey are very positive for the airport and the people of Mackay. It shows that Mackay Airport even with its increasing aircraft and passenger volumes is managing to handle those volumes without having a major impact on local residents.”

Mackay Airport handled more than 400 000 passengers last year -- an increase of 20 per cent on the previous year.

Mr Keane said the survey data was assessed against Australian Standards dealing with aircraft noise intrusion.

More than 15 million pieces of information were eventually downloaded and analysed by expert acoustic engineers.

The technical report prepared by independent consultants Environmental Resources Management Australia found on average 35 landings or take-offs daily recorded noise levels at 70 decibels or above.
 
The Australian Standard for homes and motels is 75 decibels for more than 20 movements (landings or take-offs) a day.

Mr Keane said the survey also compared the frequency of major passenger flights.

“We had a respite (time without noise impact) of 60 per cent, compared with major airports where this can be as low as10 per cent,’ he said.

“Generally we have extensive gaps between passenger flights and therefore the frequency of potential noise events is reduced.”

Mr Keane said the MPA was determined to continue to monitor aircraft noise levels.

“A similar study will be conducted about every five years subject to major changes in aircraft volume,” he said.

An executive summary of the findings will be sent to people who participated in the survey.