Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 487: To ask the Minister for Transport the function he has in issuing directions to bodies or agencies which report to him regarding the levels of aircraft noise while on the ground and over-flying residential areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35144/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Under Statutory Instrument 645 of 2003 (Air Navigation and Transport Rules and Procedures for Noise Related Operating Restrictions at Airports) the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) is the Competent Authority. I have no function in relation to issuing directions to the IAA under this Statutory Instrument.

However, I am advised that all aircraft arriving and departing Dublin Airport come under the direction of the Irish Aviation Authority who provide Air Traffic Control services in Ireland and it is they who are responsible for the routing of aircraft. The primary decision on runway use is based on meteorological conditions at the time (i.e. wind direction), for safety reasons aircraft must take off into the wind. Essential maintenance on runways, is another factor in influencing the choice of runway by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA).