Leeds Bradford - General Thread

[SierraHotel]

Many thanks Finger for all your efforts. Much appreciated.

 

[GolfFox]

Happy reading folks - apologies for the delay and hope you can view the attachment as had some trouble with this

Thanks @Finger66 - very interesting

 

[JRP]

Happy reading folks - apologies for the delay and hope you can view the attachment as had some trouble with this

Great report there, massive thanks for putting this together

I get the impression that the group we don’t name or as I call them the clown group, are actually massive plane geeks as all they seem to do is think about planes, I bet they are dreaming of planes in there sleep( or lack off as they say), I bet when they drive there polluting cats to the pub they gwll
About planes

 

[AndyL]

Many thanks for a very helpful and detailed report

 

[White Heather]

Many thanks Finger66. An interesting read. Much of what was said confirms details given to the ACC. Fortunately, ***** are not there to make a nuisance of themselves.

I suspect their member who actually thanked VH will have been soundly thrashed by other members immediately after the meeting! There's no doubt in my mind that these people are literally obsessed. They seem to eat, live and breathe (but not sleep obviously) hatred for LBA.

Well done to you, Mrs Finger, Bhowani and LBA4EVER on attending and coming through it without being arrested. I couldn't have done that myself.

 

[dmrodgers]

Thanks Finger66 for a very thorough and informative detailed report on the meeting. Some good facts/information there putting the airports points and views of their future plans and expansion. Was nice to see VH quote the last summers aircraft movement count which was within the nighttime quota +10% of winter total so 80 spare movements and the noise complaints are down and importantly that the airport and Leeds City Council are close to a noise agreement which hopefully will see 0.25 will not be counted within the quota.

 

[White Heather]

Thanks Finger66 for a very thorough and informative detailed report on the meeting. Some good facts/information there putting the airports points and views of their future plans and expansion. Was nice to see VH quote the last summers aircraft movement count which was within the nighttime quota +10% of winter total so 80 spare movements and the noise complaints are down and importantly that the airport and Leeds City Council are close to a noise agreement which hopefully will see 0.25 will not be counted within the quota.

No doubt ***** will say the night quota was exceeded. What LBA count, and what they count, are two different things. LBA don't count the MAX and NEO movements . That lot do. So do LCC although so far, nothing has been done about it and hopefully some new agreement will be reached going forward that makes more sense.

 

[pug]

Thanks for the write up @Finger66 seems quite positive to me and the airport are clearly taking a pragmatic approach to the noise issue. I do think it’s important to keep engaging with people who are opposed to the airport and night flying. The only way is to reassure because, whilst there might be some quite ignorant/bigoted amongst them, many will be simply uninformed and driven by fear of the unknown and they can be appeased and thus weaken the opposition.

 

[LBAYORKIE]

Happy reading folks - apologies for the delay and hope you can view the attachment as had some trouble with this

Excellent report. VH is very impressive and as you say its well worth making the effort to attend. I was abroad for this one but will be going to some future ones.

 

[Seasider]

A very comprehensive report, thank you for the time and effort put into it. Also, thank your wife for going and supporting the airport.

 

[Finger66]

@Seasider thanks duly passed on

 

[BCFC]

@Finger66 thank you, just read that sat on the toilet.

 

[fozzy]

@Finger66 Many thanks, very informative.

 

[Len Fish]

@Finger66 thank you, just read that sat on the toilet.

 

[White Heather]

@Finger66 thank you, just read that sat on the toilet.

Waaaayyyy too much information.

 

[Finger66]

Clearly read it in lieu of a newspaper!

 

[The Pole]

They are in the news again!!!

Leeds Bradford Airport denies campaigners' night flights claim

Leeds Bradford Airport insists a group's suggestion it has breached rules is "incorrect".

www.bbc.com

 

[Statto]

I received this today by email

Welcome from Vincent Hodder, CEO, Leeds Bradford Airport
It’s a pleasure to welcome you to this, our first edition of LBA Community Connections. Across all the communities we’ve visited to date, we continue to see inspiring examples of local spirit, neighbourhood collaboration, and helpful feedback.
This newsletter is a way to recognise the people, places, and progress that make our communities local to LBA thrive. In each edition, we’ll summarise the main points covered during our LBA Community sessions and highlight any actions the airport will take forward. We hope this helps the many communities neighbouring our airport to understand that we all share responsibility for improving our operations overall.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re building stronger, more connected communities.
Vincent

Local Discussion Points

Headingley​

Climate & Environmental Impact​

• Calls for caution on airport expansion until sustainable solutions are viable.
• Discussion on electric planes and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as future alternatives.
• Comparisons between different aircraft models/types and their emissions.
• SAF production and usage timelines.
• Measurement of emissions and community engagement on environmental concerns.

Noise & Monitoring​

• Noise from reverse thrusts and night movements affects residents, especially in urban areas.
• Applications for mobile noise monitors are welcome.
• Wind direction and runway usage influence noise impact.
• Perceived growth in evening and night flights noted.
• Airlines described as responding to customer demand rather than controlling its impact.

Transport & Accessibility​

• Increased traffic due to airport activity.
• Leeds City Council exploring solutions including drop-off facilities and public transport improvements.
• Flights are now often cheaper than trains which is having an impact on influencing travel choices.

Economic & Operational Planning​

• Investment in runway improvements and infrastructure.
• High value placed on securing slots at major airports like Heathrow.

Community Engagement & Governance​

• Concerns over environmental impact of expansion.
• Emphasis on inclusive consultation and transparency.

Yeadon & Rawdon​

Transport & Accessibility​

• No legal framework currently in place for taxi drivers.
• Issues with airport parking, roadside rubbish, and permitted parking areas.
• Need for improved cycle facilities.
• Road system is complex; proposals include better signage, separate entrances, and monitoring.
• Monitoring of patronage and passenger percentages.

Infrastructure & Development​

• Joint funding from Leeds City Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority to build the new LBA Parkway Station.
• Free electric shuttle service to and from LBA support new station access.
• Development of North West Employment Hub to create jobs.
• Freight reintroduction discussed but limited by lack of motorway access and absence of wide-body aircraft.
• Questions raised about restoring Heathrow connectivity.

Financial & Environmental Considerations​

• Discussion on community impact vs airport profitability.
• Suggestions include taxing aviation fuel or applying Air Passenger Duty (APD) to offset costs.
• Aviation in total contributes 2% to global emissions.
• Comparisons made with construction, agriculture, and road sectors.

Noise & Community Impact​

• Breaches of noise limits recorded; plans for fines to be increased from £2,000 to £10,000+.
• Explained use of GPS-based NPRs (Noise Preferential Routes).
• Differentiation between individual complaints and repeat complaints.
• Noted perceived increase in night movements between 2016–2023, though the statistics say fewer people are seriously impacted.
• Proposal to shift night movements earlier in the evening during summer.
• Emphasis on balancing broader impact and mitigation efforts.

Horsforth​

Travel Trends & Policy​

• Long-term forecasting (25 years) is considered unreliable.
• Emphasis on reducing leisure flights; tourism to destinations like Spain questioned.
• Flying is seen as essential for business, not leisure.
• Government policy should reflect broad community interests.

Community Sentiment​

• Surveys show 90% support for airport expansion among residents within 5 miles.
• Communication with communities like Horsforth has been poor and needs improvement.

Noise & Complaints​

• Airspace change program aims to reduce noise.
• Noise complaints have a 21-day response time.
• Take-offs between 6–7 AM significantly impact Horsforth.
• Consideration of higher pricing for early morning flights.

Vision 2030 & Sustainability​

• Commitment to total net zero emissions by 2050.
• Plans include:
  • Use of electric aircraft.
  • Adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
• Honest communication about profit and infrastructure growth.

Aircraft & Noise Action Plan​

• Preference for quieter, fuel-efficient aircraft operating outside peak hours.
• Updated Noise Action Plan reporting underway.

Financial Performance​

• Aviation sector revenue increased by 25%.
• Financial results published to support strategic planning.

Infrastructure & Redevelopment​

• Redevelopment includes:
  • New radar and air traffic control systems.
  • Construction of new stands over five years.
  • New station between Horsforth and Weeton – LBA Parkway.
  • Hotel development in existing car park areas.
• Border Force E-Gates contract expired 18 months ago; redevelopment contingent on new contract.

Burley-in-Wharfedale​

Health & Air Quality Monitoring​

• Leeds Council is monitoring atmospheric data, showing low pollution levels – there has never been a breach.
• Concerns raised about health impacts from airport operations.
• Questions about the location and effectiveness of air quality monitors around LBA.

Noise & Night Flights​

• Night flights are a major source of disturbance, especially in Burley in Wharfedale and Main Street areas.
• Suggestions include:
  • Steeper departure angles to reduce noise.
  • Replacing older aircraft with quieter models like the A321 Neo.
• Historical noise control measures tracked from 2011 to 2024.
• Complaints require live decibel readings, particularly from Burley in Wharfedale.

Regulatory & Operational Issues​

• Flight rules under review to reduce traffic impact, including take-off directions and timings.

Sustainability & Emissions​

• Discussions on carbon emissions from solar farms and e-fuel usage.
• Public consultations on airspace changes and sustainable aviation practices.
• Emphasis on reducing flying as part of climate responsibility.

Community Engagement​

• Contact details for local stakeholders to be shared and residents involved in feedback and petitions.
• Questions raised about Border Force operations and gate management by 2030.
• Petition to change take off routes from LBA link

Bramhope​

Community Engagement & Outreach​

• 12 sessions held across 12 locations including Bramhope, Otley, Horsforth, Cookridge, and others.
• Focused on listening to community concerns and sharing updates.
• Will approach Jet2 and invite to future sessions to address noise and pollution concerns.

Infrastructure & Expansion​

• Increased seat floor space and seat purchasing to meet demand.
• £1 million allocated for maintenance.

Sustainability Strategy​

• Goal to transition ground fleet (buses etc) to electric by end of 2026.
• Refrigerants not yet replaced; older systems remain in use.

Aircraft Emissions & Efficiency​

• Focus on short-haul flights; no long-haul operations.
• Aircraft like 737–800 noted for age and emissions profile.
• Ground transportation emissions tracked.
• Balancing environmental impact with operational efficiency.
• SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) and hybrid power discussed as future options.

Passenger & Travel Data​

• Air Travel Metrics:
  • 13.2 million air passenger trips vs 4.9 million in Yorkshire.
  • Emphasis on improving destination convenience and time efficiency.
  • Differentiated pricing models under consideration.

Otley​

Airport Expansion & Traffic Impact​

• Concerns raised about increased traffic on local road networks due to airport expansion.
• Passenger numbers are rising, increasing demand for transport options.
• Flight prices have been lowered to boost load capacity; pricing is not controlled by the airport.

Noise​

• Significant noise impact reported, especially pre-lockdown (Chevin area highlighted).
• Aircraft types (e.g., 737-300/800) and unchanged flight paths noted.
• Noise monitors under Chevin show variable impact between seasons due to diversion thresholds.
• Western Otley, Waitrose area identified as affected zones.

Sustainability & Emissions​

• Discussion on Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme (ACAS) and Paris Agreement alignment.
• Net Zero goals by 2030 include:
  • Improved public transport (trains/buses).
  • Scope 3 emissions reduction via Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Community Engagement & Feedback​

• Net Promoter Score (NPS) used to measure community sentiment via ACC.
• Community feedback sessions include listening mode and guided questions.
• Jet2 to be invited to events to discuss noise and pollution concerns.

Monitoring & Consultation​

• Request for mobile noise monitors in Otley.
• Airspace Change Programme consultation recommended due to differing community perceptions.

Guiseley​

Noise & Night Flights​

• Night movements affect residents, especially in urban areas.
• Concerns regarding night flight disruptions and potential breaches of quota limits.

Health Impacts​

• Concerns raised about health impacts from airport operations to those living within proximity of the airport.

Travel Trends & Policy​

• Over optimistic outlook concerns. Should focus more on the here and now.

Accessibility​

• Concerns as an assisted traveller. Keen to understand the improvements the new terminal will make for those who require assistance.

Cookridge​

Noise​

• Night flight disruptions and concerns over breaches of quota limits.
• Jet2 aircraft noted for steep, noisy climbs over city centre.
• Noise Preferential Route design causing increased complaints.

Health Impacts​

• Chronic health concerns linked to long-term exposure to aviation noise and emissions.
• Potential of particulate matter affecting residential gardens in Cookridge.

Parking & Traffic​

• Cookridge residents report worsening parking issues due to airport expansion.
• Concerns over traffic calming and pedestrian safety near new housing developments.

Infrastructure & Development​

• Runway resurfacing planned with closures from 11:30 PM to 6:00 AM.
• High interest in LBA Parkway Station and Park & Ride scheme – more information required in partnership with Leeds City Council.
• Northwest Leeds Employment Hub potentially prioritising employment land over housing.

Upcoming Events​

• Monday 9 February 2026 – St John’s Parish Church Hall, Baildon
• Wednesday 11th February 2026 – Meanwood C of E Primary School, Meanwood

Evening Schedule:

• 18:00 – 18:30: Venue open to sign in, teas and coffees, view displays
• 18:30 – 19:30: Presentation from Vincent Hodder, CEO, Leeds Bradford Airport
• 19:30 – 20:00: Questions from our audience
• 20:00 – 20:30: Closing Remarks and Next Steps

Want to get in touch?​

• Email: [email protected]

 

[White Heather]

I received this today by email

Welcome from Vincent Hodder, CEO, Leeds Bradford Airport
It’s a pleasure to welcome you to this, our first edition of LBA Community Connections. Across all the communities we’ve visited to date, we continue to see inspiring examples of local spirit, neighbourhood collaboration, and helpful feedback.
This newsletter is a way to recognise the people, places, and progress that make our communities local to LBA thrive. In each edition, we’ll summarise the main points covered during our LBA Community sessions and highlight any actions the airport will take forward. We hope this helps the many communities neighbouring our airport to understand that we all share responsibility for improving our operations overall.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re building stronger, more connected communities.
Vincent

Local Discussion Points

Headingley​

Climate & Environmental Impact​

• Calls for caution on airport expansion until sustainable solutions are viable.
• Discussion on electric planes and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as future alternatives.
• Comparisons between different aircraft models/types and their emissions.
• SAF production and usage timelines.
• Measurement of emissions and community engagement on environmental concerns.

Noise & Monitoring​

• Noise from reverse thrusts and night movements affects residents, especially in urban areas.
• Applications for mobile noise monitors are welcome.
• Wind direction and runway usage influence noise impact.
• Perceived growth in evening and night flights noted.
• Airlines described as responding to customer demand rather than controlling its impact.

Transport & Accessibility​

• Increased traffic due to airport activity.
• Leeds City Council exploring solutions including drop-off facilities and public transport improvements.
• Flights are now often cheaper than trains which is having an impact on influencing travel choices.

Economic & Operational Planning​

• Investment in runway improvements and infrastructure.
• High value placed on securing slots at major airports like Heathrow.

Community Engagement & Governance​

• Concerns over environmental impact of expansion.
• Emphasis on inclusive consultation and transparency.

Yeadon & Rawdon​

Transport & Accessibility​

• No legal framework currently in place for taxi drivers.
• Issues with airport parking, roadside rubbish, and permitted parking areas.
• Need for improved cycle facilities.
• Road system is complex; proposals include better signage, separate entrances, and monitoring.
• Monitoring of patronage and passenger percentages.

Infrastructure & Development​

• Joint funding from Leeds City Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority to build the new LBA Parkway Station.
• Free electric shuttle service to and from LBA support new station access.
• Development of North West Employment Hub to create jobs.
• Freight reintroduction discussed but limited by lack of motorway access and absence of wide-body aircraft.
• Questions raised about restoring Heathrow connectivity.

Financial & Environmental Considerations​

• Discussion on community impact vs airport profitability.
• Suggestions include taxing aviation fuel or applying Air Passenger Duty (APD) to offset costs.
• Aviation in total contributes 2% to global emissions.
• Comparisons made with construction, agriculture, and road sectors.

Noise & Community Impact​

• Breaches of noise limits recorded; plans for fines to be increased from £2,000 to £10,000+.
• Explained use of GPS-based NPRs (Noise Preferential Routes).
• Differentiation between individual complaints and repeat complaints.
• Noted perceived increase in night movements between 2016–2023, though the statistics say fewer people are seriously impacted.
• Proposal to shift night movements earlier in the evening during summer.
• Emphasis on balancing broader impact and mitigation efforts.

Horsforth​

Travel Trends & Policy​

• Long-term forecasting (25 years) is considered unreliable.
• Emphasis on reducing leisure flights; tourism to destinations like Spain questioned.
• Flying is seen as essential for business, not leisure.
• Government policy should reflect broad community interests.

Community Sentiment​

• Surveys show 90% support for airport expansion among residents within 5 miles.
• Communication with communities like Horsforth has been poor and needs improvement.

Noise & Complaints​

• Airspace change program aims to reduce noise.
• Noise complaints have a 21-day response time.
• Take-offs between 6–7 AM significantly impact Horsforth.
• Consideration of higher pricing for early morning flights.

Vision 2030 & Sustainability​

• Commitment to total net zero emissions by 2050.
• Plans include:
  • Use of electric aircraft.
  • Adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
• Honest communication about profit and infrastructure growth.

Aircraft & Noise Action Plan​

• Preference for quieter, fuel-efficient aircraft operating outside peak hours.
• Updated Noise Action Plan reporting underway.

Financial Performance​

• Aviation sector revenue increased by 25%.
• Financial results published to support strategic planning.

Infrastructure & Redevelopment​

• Redevelopment includes:
  • New radar and air traffic control systems.
  • Construction of new stands over five years.
  • New station between Horsforth and Weeton – LBA Parkway.
  • Hotel development in existing car park areas.
• Border Force E-Gates contract expired 18 months ago; redevelopment contingent on new contract.

Burley-in-Wharfedale​

Health & Air Quality Monitoring​

• Leeds Council is monitoring atmospheric data, showing low pollution levels – there has never been a breach.
• Concerns raised about health impacts from airport operations.
• Questions about the location and effectiveness of air quality monitors around LBA.

Noise & Night Flights​

• Night flights are a major source of disturbance, especially in Burley in Wharfedale and Main Street areas.
• Suggestions include:
  • Steeper departure angles to reduce noise.
  • Replacing older aircraft with quieter models like the A321 Neo.
• Historical noise control measures tracked from 2011 to 2024.
• Complaints require live decibel readings, particularly from Burley in Wharfedale.

Regulatory & Operational Issues​

• Flight rules under review to reduce traffic impact, including take-off directions and timings.

Sustainability & Emissions​

• Discussions on carbon emissions from solar farms and e-fuel usage.
• Public consultations on airspace changes and sustainable aviation practices.
• Emphasis on reducing flying as part of climate responsibility.

Community Engagement​

• Contact details for local stakeholders to be shared and residents involved in feedback and petitions.
• Questions raised about Border Force operations and gate management by 2030.
• Petition to change take off routes from LBA link

Bramhope​

Community Engagement & Outreach​

• 12 sessions held across 12 locations including Bramhope, Otley, Horsforth, Cookridge, and others.
• Focused on listening to community concerns and sharing updates.
• Will approach Jet2 and invite to future sessions to address noise and pollution concerns.

Infrastructure & Expansion​

• Increased seat floor space and seat purchasing to meet demand.
• £1 million allocated for maintenance.

Sustainability Strategy​

• Goal to transition ground fleet (buses etc) to electric by end of 2026.
• Refrigerants not yet replaced; older systems remain in use.

Aircraft Emissions & Efficiency​

• Focus on short-haul flights; no long-haul operations.
• Aircraft like 737–800 noted for age and emissions profile.
• Ground transportation emissions tracked.
• Balancing environmental impact with operational efficiency.
• SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) and hybrid power discussed as future options.

Passenger & Travel Data​

• Air Travel Metrics:
  • 13.2 million air passenger trips vs 4.9 million in Yorkshire.
  • Emphasis on improving destination convenience and time efficiency.
  • Differentiated pricing models under consideration.

Otley​

Airport Expansion & Traffic Impact​

• Concerns raised about increased traffic on local road networks due to airport expansion.
• Passenger numbers are rising, increasing demand for transport options.
• Flight prices have been lowered to boost load capacity; pricing is not controlled by the airport.

Noise​

• Significant noise impact reported, especially pre-lockdown (Chevin area highlighted).
• Aircraft types (e.g., 737-300/800) and unchanged flight paths noted.
• Noise monitors under Chevin show variable impact between seasons due to diversion thresholds.
• Western Otley, Waitrose area identified as affected zones.

Sustainability & Emissions​

• Discussion on Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme (ACAS) and Paris Agreement alignment.
• Net Zero goals by 2030 include:
  • Improved public transport (trains/buses).
  • Scope 3 emissions reduction via Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Community Engagement & Feedback​

• Net Promoter Score (NPS) used to measure community sentiment via ACC.
• Community feedback sessions include listening mode and guided questions.
• Jet2 to be invited to events to discuss noise and pollution concerns.

Monitoring & Consultation​

• Request for mobile noise monitors in Otley.
• Airspace Change Programme consultation recommended due to differing community perceptions.

Guiseley​

Noise & Night Flights​

• Night movements affect residents, especially in urban areas.
• Concerns regarding night flight disruptions and potential breaches of quota limits.

Health Impacts​

• Concerns raised about health impacts from airport operations to those living within proximity of the airport.

Travel Trends & Policy​

• Over optimistic outlook concerns. Should focus more on the here and now.

Accessibility​

• Concerns as an assisted traveller. Keen to understand the improvements the new terminal will make for those who require assistance.

Cookridge​

Noise​

• Night flight disruptions and concerns over breaches of quota limits.
• Jet2 aircraft noted for steep, noisy climbs over city centre.
• Noise Preferential Route design causing increased complaints.

Health Impacts​

• Chronic health concerns linked to long-term exposure to aviation noise and emissions.
• Potential of particulate matter affecting residential gardens in Cookridge.

Parking & Traffic​

• Cookridge residents report worsening parking issues due to airport expansion.
• Concerns over traffic calming and pedestrian safety near new housing developments.

Infrastructure & Development​

• Runway resurfacing planned with closures from 11:30 PM to 6:00 AM.
• High interest in LBA Parkway Station and Park & Ride scheme – more information required in partnership with Leeds City Council.
• Northwest Leeds Employment Hub potentially prioritising employment land over housing.

Upcoming Events​

• Monday 9 February 2026 – St John’s Parish Church Hall, Baildon
• Wednesday 11th February 2026 – Meanwood C of E Primary School, Meanwood

Evening Schedule:

• 18:00 – 18:30: Venue open to sign in, teas and coffees, view displays
• 18:30 – 19:30: Presentation from Vincent Hodder, CEO, Leeds Bradford Airport
• 19:30 – 20:00: Questions from our audience
• 20:00 – 20:30: Closing Remarks and Next Steps

Want to get in touch?​

• Email: [email protected]

Thank you, although I have to say it reads like a ***** charter.

 

[Finger66]

When I visited the crash gate on the hill on Monday I noticed further soil/muck/dirt had been dumped along the side of the track. Does anyone know if this if for legitimate use or is it fly tipping? From an enthusiasts perspective this may not help viewing if it continues, but more importantly, if there was ever a need for emergency services to gain access it is getting close to hampering that access