Noise quota for night flights

Aquota system for night flights at Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted, based on the amount of noise made by aircraft, was announced by John MacGregor, Secretary of State for Transport.

The system - which replaces the current arrangement limiting the number of flights - will encourage airlines to use quieter aircraft. Opponents said it was a scandal and would lead to round-the- clock flying. Sir John Egan, chairman of BAA plc, which operates the three airports, described it as a 'reasonable compromise'.