The London Heliport Consultative Group met on Monday 2nd July 2018 to discuss noise monitoring, airspace regulations, and helicopter movements. The group received a verbal update from the Civil Aviation Authority regarding airspace issues and reviewed the final version of a noise monitoring report conducted by London Southbank University.

Civil Aviation Authority Update on Airspace Issues

Stuart Lindsey, Airspace Regulation Manager for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), provided an update on helicopter activity and airspace regulations in London. He presented a radar-derived view of helicopter movements in 2017, highlighting busy routes along the River Thames, through the City, and in areas like Greenwich and the Lea Valley. Mr. Lindsey explained that while the CAA's primary focus is on safe airspace, and twin-engine helicopters are not monitored for noise, they are concerned with airspace infringements. He noted that the proposed third runway at Heathrow Airport is likely to impact helicopter routes, and the new US Embassy at Nine Elms has affected low-flying helicopter freedoms. The Department for Transport is currently consulting on an Airspace Modernisation Strategy, which will involve setting criteria for new routes.

London Southbank University Noise Monitoring Report

The group reviewed the final version of the noise monitoring report undertaken by London Southbank University (LSBU). This report, which had been discussed at a previous meeting and amended, would be published on council websites and linked from the London Heliport's webpages. Simon Hutchins, London Heliport Manager, stated that the heliport is working to minimise noise disturbance, with newer helicopters being quieter, and that helicopter movements are closely monitored to ensure limits are not exceeded. Despite these efforts, the group highlighted findings of intrusive noise levels, particularly late at night, and the conflict between permitted movements and the impact on residents. Suggestions were made for local London Assembly Members to lobby the Mayor of London regarding an alternative site for the heliport in a less residential area, and the possibility of helicopter emissions monitoring was raised, though doubts were expressed about its technical feasibility. Following the meeting, the Noise Monitoring Report was to be published with a press release approved by the group's councillor representatives.

Information on Helicopter Movements

Simon Hutchins presented information on helicopter movements at the London Heliport during the first and second quarters of 2018. He reported that flight patterns had not significantly changed, with sightseeing flights operating at higher altitudes during good visibility. Most helicopter approaches were along the centre of the River Thames, with many routes crossing at Putney Bridge. Mr. Hutchins also noted that when the London Heliport is closed, airspace is controlled by radar from Swanwick. Following poor weather earlier in the year, helicopter movements had seen a marginal increase, and these were being closely monitored by the Planning Enforcement Team. The report was noted by the group.

Helicopter Noise Complaints

The group noted the information provided on helicopter noise complaints received by the London Heliport in the first and second quarters of 2018, along with the actions taken in response.

Other Business

During the Any Other Business section, it was suggested that a press release should accompany the publication of the Noise Monitoring Report. Additionally, a proposal was put forward for the Group to write to the owners of the London Heliport to highlight the findings of the noise study and express general concerns about the heliport's location.

Date of Next Meeting

The group agreed to continue meeting three times per calendar year, with dates for future meetings yet to be confirmed. A post-meeting update indicated that the next meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, 27th November 2018, at 7 pm.