GBBCA Forum
In 1993, GBBCA established the first airport consultative committee in Northern Ireland. The Forum has an independent chairman and comprises representatives from local authorities, residents groups, the NI General Consumer Council, the Department for Regional Development, airlines and other groups.
Meeting with airport management on a regular basis, the George Best Belfast City Airport Forum is able to discuss all issues relating to the development and operation of the airport. Recent developments in the Forum have led to the creation of the following Sub Committees to enable more detailed consideration of matters under discussion:
• Environmental and Technical Group
• Economic and Service Development Group
In addition to continually monitoring noise complaints and airport performance, the Forum will, from time to time, take a more detailed look at issues of interest and concern, for example:
• The review of the airport's planning agreement
• Lobbying for improved integrated transport solutions in the area
• Responding to the Government's consultation on increased capacity at Heathrow airport
• Discussions on plans to extend the airport runway
Noise management has always been an issue on the Forum agenda. The airport continues to seek improvements in its management of noise. The Forum Environmental Sub Committee scrutinises the annual noise contour reports and has been involved in discussions on the siting of noise monitors.
Discussions within the Forum have highlighted community concern about the number of delayed flights operating after 21:30. GBBCA, in association with airlines, continues to focus attention on this issue and
monthly performance statistics are posted on the website.