Concern over airport's bid for more night flights

Luke Page said he wanted help with soundproofing if the night flying limit changed

People living under or near an airport flightpath have raised concerns about plans to increase the number of night flights.

Some residents in Tile Cross, about four miles (6km) from Birmingham Airport, said they worried about the extra noise.

"In the daytime it's not so bad, but now they're getting bigger and more frequent it certainly does makes a difference, especially inside the house," local resident Luke Page said.

Birmingham Airport said it would work with Solihull Council to improve sound insulation in local homes if the flying limitations were reduced.

The airport said it was seeking permission from Solihull Council to go from 5% of take-offs and landings at night to 7.3% to keep up with demand.

"At least come and talk to the people that live by the airport to help out, probably towards new windows or something to make the difference," Mr Page said.

"Obviously they're making money from it so sure they should look after people that live right by it."

Others have taken to social media to express their concern.

But some people said they were not worried.

"It doesn't actually bother me because I've lived here for over 40 years I've raised two children. The airport was here when I moved in."

"It just doesn't pose a problem for me," she said.

The airport said it was seeing 40% more passengers than in 2007

Airport CEO Nick Barton said the extra flights would bring big economic benefits to the region and suggested it would be missing out if the night time limit was not changed.

He said: "We recognise noise and the effect it has on residents, but it is a challenge."

The airport gives out about £100,000 a year to improve insulation in nearby homes, he said.