The European Commission has opened a consultation seeking public and stakeholder input ahead of an evaluation of EU rules that guide how major airports introduce noise-related operating restrictions.
The call for evidence covers the Balanced Approach Regulation, which sets out a process member states must follow when considering restrictions linked to aircraft noise, the Commission said in a statement on Friday.
Under the rules, countries are expected to look at a range of options before limiting air traffic, and to consult affected parties throughout the decision-making process.
Aircraft have become about 75% quieter over the past 30 years, but growing air traffic means many people in the EU are still exposed to high noise levels near airports.
How to take part
The consultation is hosted on the Commission’s ‘Have your Say’ portal and is available in all official EU languages.
Contributions can be submitted up to 26 February 2026, according to the European Commission.
