A public inquiry will assess Leeds Bradford Airport’s (LBA) appeals regarding night flight restrictions after Leeds City Council rejected two Certificate of Lawfulness of Existing Use or Development (CLEUD) applications and failed to determine a third. The applications sought clarification on existing permissions for older, noisier aircraft to operate at night.
LBA CEO Vincent Hodder stated that the inquiry focuses on interpreting planning conditions established nearly 30 years ago, not increasing night flights. He argued that the airport’s position aligns with the original intent of minimising noise impact while encouraging the use of quieter, modern aircraft.
The airport is investing over £200 million in improvements, aiming to create 5,500 jobs and contribute nearly £1 billion to the UK economy. It is also committed to achieving Net Zero by 2030.
The inquiry, led by an independent planning inspector appointed by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, will take place at Leeds Civic Hall from 11–14 March.
