Emirates awarded Gold Tier for top performance in JFK Fly Quiet Programme

All aircraft in Emirates’ fleet meet or surpass ICAO Chapter 4 or Chapter 14 noise standards, as outlined in Annex 16 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. The airline reports that its fleet achieves a cumulative margin more than 12 EPNdB better than ICAO Chapter 4 requirements.

Emirates operates an all wide-body fleet designed for high-capacity, long-range flights. According to the airline, this model helps optimize noise output while maintaining efficient passenger transport. For example, a single Airbus A380 flight carrying 500 passengers results in fewer arrival and departure noise events compared to multiple smaller aircraft serving the same route.

The airline emphasizes that air connectivity provides community benefits beyond airport boundaries, such as linking families across continents, supporting local economies, creating jobs, and promoting international trade and tourism.

Emirates outlines several key elements of its noise reduction strategy:

- Strict compliance with Noise Abatement Departure Procedures (NADP), which are integrated into standard operating procedures and followed by all flight crews.

- Proactive use of Noise Preferential Runways when possible, even under challenging conditions if safety allows.

- Transparent monitoring: Any deviation from noise procedures requires mandatory crew reporting and review for improvement.

- Ongoing investment in fleet modernization to maintain quiet operations.

- Collaboration with stakeholders through participation in airport authority roundtables and focus groups, as well as rigorous regulatory compliance.

A spokesperson for Emirates stated: "Aircraft noise abatement is vital for protecting the health and quality of life of airport-adjacent communities. The airline's commitment to minimising its noise impact reflects its support for local communities in the destinations it serves, recognising that even small decisions in flight operations can lead to meaningful noise reduction on the ground."

The airline says it will continue investing in technology and operational practices aimed at reducing its environmental impact while meeting global aviation standards.