Environmental Measures and Noise Complaints
Since the Ottawa Airport Authority was formed in 1997, a key priority has been to implement programs that address various environmental issues, and to improve processes that were already in place. These include noise abatement, glycol recovery, and storm water management, to name but a few.
These programs have made a measurable difference. But, our work is not done, and we will continue to make enhancements as we serve the community and the rest of the world.
General Activities
- Glycol Mitigation Plans that identify procedures for the application and disposal of glycol have been in place since 1996.
- Full environmental assessments are carried out for all activities not included in the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency Project Exclusion list. Conscientious follow-up activities ensure that identified mitigation measures are implemented as necessary.
- A Central De-Icing Facility was constructed to replace the first facility that was built in 1996. Spent glycol is captured and recycled, and has resulted in compliance with the regulations 99.2% of the time. Our goal is to achieve 100% compliance.
- After completing significant hydrogeological assessments and glycol treatability studies, a glycol bioremediation system was built. The system consists of glycol impacted storm water collection and remediation using naturally occurring bacteria that consume the glycol after it enters the system.
- The Airport Authority is working towards full Environmental Management System certification based on ISO 14000 standards. The program is expected to be in place in 2005.
The Airport Authority developed an Environmental Awareness Program to provide assistance to our tenants who are at risk of causing environmental impacts. We also provide added support through visits and information sessions to inform our tenants about impending regulations and changes that may affect them.
Noise Complaints
Canadians depend upon air transport – it’s a vital facet of life. But, aircraft make noise. And since the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport Authority (OMCIAA) wants to be a good neighbour, we are always looking for ways to reduce noise discomfort for residents living around us, while keeping a close eye on safety requirements.
What are we doing about noise?
Here are some of the things that OMCIAA and the aviation community are doing to reduce aircraft noise:
- Arrivals and departures are routed to the least disturbing flight paths – without compromising flight safety;
- Radar and navigational aids provide precise control of arrivals and departures;
- We work with planners at the municipal and provincial levels to coordinate growth around the airport in an effort to minimize disturbance for future residents;
- Aircraft manufacturers are continuing their research in noise control technology. Today’s generation of jet engines deliver more power to carry larger aircraft, with a dramatic decrease in noise; and
- Air carriers are gradually phasing the noisiest of their aircraft out of their fleets or retrofitting them with new, quieter engines.
OMCIAA’s Aircraft Noise Management Program requires that all noise complaints are investigated to determine whether or not noise abatement procedures were followed. Transport Canada is notified of all infractions after which they can pursue further investigation, and issue fines accordingly. Noise incidences have fallen from a high of 210 in 1998 to 55 in 2005.
Airport Operations Influence Zone (AOIZ)
The Ottawa International Airport has taken noise abatement one step further. In partnership with the municipal and provincial governments and other community stakeholders, we have created the AOIZ. This line is a composite of the 30 NEF and 30 NEP noise contours, and takes into account visible features such as roads and watercourses. The zone was established to restrict noise-sensitive development such as residential housing, schools, and libraries, all of which are easily disturbed by noise.
We’re listening
OMCIAA listens to every noise inquiry and investigates to determine the cause. There is a 24-hour noise complaints reporting service which can be reached at 613-248-2023. Every effort is made to respond to inquiries by the next business day.