June 2026 Newsletter
Airport Matters – Update for Residents
Trial of New Runway 03 Approach
The trial of the new Runway 03 approach phase C commenced on 30 April 2026. This trial introduces a modern satellite‑based “Radius to Fix” (RF) approach, offering an alternative to the traditional Instrument Landing System (ILS) for Runway 21 (ie from the North). Instead, aircraft loop south‑west from the east to land on Runway 03 (ie from the South) in poor weather conditions.
From 14 May 2026: All suitably equipped aircraft and operators can now fly the new Instrument Approach to London Biggin Hill Airport’s Runway 03, as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) authorised trial moves to its full trial phase. Not many aircraft are flying this new route which was meant to reduce noise over residential areas but it is unclear why they are reluctant to do so. We will be seeking explanations from the airport.
Flight Movements
Reported flight numbers (unverified) have continued to decline. This is believed to be linked to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Council Changes
Cllr Christopher Marlow, the previous Portfolio Holder for Resources Commissioning and Contract Management, has resigned after joining the Reform Party. He had led the Council’s negotiations with the airport on the Noise Action Plan (NAP). He has been replaced by Cllr Yvonne Bear.
Complaints Process
The airport reviewed and updated its complaints procedures and guidance. These can be found at https://bigginhillairport.com/community/noise/ It is now easier to make a complaint. Keston Village and Crofton Residents’ Associations have recently secured positive changes to the complaints progress. They are also working with the airport to produce statistics to show how the airport is faring against targets such as response times. The airport is also considering expanding the coverage of three Noise Sensitive Areas (NSAs). Further updates are awaited.
LBB Executive Meeting – 24 November 2025
Airport-related matters were discussed at the Executive, Resources and Contracts PDS (ERCPDS) meeting, which was live‑streamed. Following our correspondence to Councillors outlining concerns and questions, there was a thorough and cross‑party discussion addressing key issues.
One important point raised was the need to maintain momentum on the Noise Action Plan review, including regular progress updates at ERCPDS meetings rather than waiting for the proposed annual review in September 2026. As one Councillor noted, there should be no opportunity to “kick the can down the road again”.
However, the official minutes failed to reflect the breadth of issues discussed and recorded only that the Runway 03 trial was proceeding. This omission excludes key concerns and outstanding questions raised during the meeting such as the 50,000 cap and lack of verification by the Council on information the airport feeds it and flight numbers and noise levels.
We submitted a complaint to the Council’s Chief Executive on the grounds that the minutes did not provide a true and accurate record, contrary to Government and Council guidelines. No response has been received from the CEO but a Council officer has since confirmed that the minutes were ratified by Councillors and therefore deemed accurate. The YouTube recording of the meeting has also been removed from the Council website but is still available on YouTube using the following link https://www.youtube.com/live/LAWTo75ern0?si=_px4Dj8TUdmgn4Vc
Thank you for your continued support.
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