Ballina Airport - Introduction of controlled airspace

1) Why is controlled airspace being introduced at Ballina Airport?

Controlled airspace is being introduced following an airspace review by the regulator, CASA which identified that increasing operational complexity had changed the risk profile in the Ballina airspace.

CASA determined that a higher level of air traffic management was required to ensure continued safe and predictable operations. Controlled airspace and air traffic control services provide that structured operating environment.

2) What are the changes?

From 9 July 2026, air traffic controllers (ATC) will manage aircraft movements in and around the airport. Pilots will operate in a more structured environment with ATC providing sequencing, instructions and traffic information. Air traffic control services will be provided from 7am to 8pm daily, local time.

3) What does this mean for me?

You may notice changes in flight paths and where aircraft typically fly in your local area.

As part of the change, standardised departure and arrival flight paths (SIDs and STARs) will be implemented. These are like roads in the sky, designed to enhance the predictability and efficiency of air traffic operations. Regular scheduled passenger flights and some non-scheduled flights e.g. business jets will use these flight paths.

Note some aircraft such as training and recreational flights, do not use SIDs and STARs and will continue to operate in a similar manner as they do now.

4) Was the community consulted on the flight path changes?

Yes, community engagement was undertaken in 2024 with two rounds of engagement on the flight path design. Our Community Engagement and Final Outcome Report outlines the flight paths design development and consideration of feedback through the stages. You can also find further information on our past engagement activities and public feedback documents on the News Feed and Documents section of this website.

5) How can I provide feedback on the new operations?

A survey will be activated on this webpage from 9 July for the community to provide feedback. 

6) Where can I view noise monitoring information?

You can view aircraft noise data from our three noise monitors on the Webtrak page. Webtrak also allows you to see where aircraft are flying around the Ballina region.

7) Who can I speak to about aircraft noise complaints once the changes are in place?

Once the changes come into effect on 9 July, if you have operational enquiries about flight paths or concerns about aircraft noise, please contact the Airservices Noise Complaints and Information Service: https://www.airservicesaustralia.com/community/environment/aircraft-noise/about-making-a-complaint/

8) What is the Post Implementation Review?

A Post Implementation Review (PIR) will be conducted around 12 months after the change to assess the effectiveness of the new flight paths and consider any further refinements based on operational data and community feedback. The change is required to operate for a minimum of 12 months prior to undertaking the PIR to allow a full year of operational data to be captured, to take into account seasonal variations.

The PIR will compare forecast operations with actual operations to determine any material difference and identify possible mitigations where required. The PIR will also consider appropriate safety or efficiency improvements.

9) Will the community be engaged in the PIR?

Yes, the PIR findings will be released to the community for feedback. 

If you can't find what you're looking for on this page, type your question below or e-mail communityengagement@airservicesaustralia.com