Emirates Earns Top Recognition for Quieter Flights at New York’s JFK Airport

Emirates has once again demonstrated its leadership in sustainable aviation operations, earning the prestigious Gold Tier recognition in New York JFK Airport’s 2024 Fly Quiet Programme. The Dubai-based carrier achieved a top score of 92.9, making it the only airline to receive this distinction among all participating carriers.

The Fly Quiet Programme, run by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, encourages airlines to reduce aircraft noise through the use of quieter aircraft, adherence to noise abatement procedures, and preferential runway use. Emirates’ consistent collaboration with the Port Authority and its rigorous flight operations standards have been key to its outstanding performance.

Building on previous accolades such as Silver Tier status at Newark (EWR) and the Chairperson’s Award at San Francisco (SFO), this latest honour reaffirms Emirates’ commitment to quieter skies and responsible aviation.

Emirates’ entire fleet meets ICAO Chapter 4 or Chapter 14 noise standards — the most stringent in global aviation. The airline’s operations demonstrate a cumulative noise margin over 12 EPNdB better than Chapter 4 requirements, thanks to ongoing investment in modern, fuel-efficient, and low-noise aircraft technologies.

By operating high-capacity, long-range aircraft, such as the Airbus A380, Emirates significantly reduces overall noise events compared to airlines using smaller aircraft. For instance, where one Emirates flight can transport 500 passengers in a single round trip, other carriers might require multiple flights, resulting in up to six arrival and six departure noise events for the same passenger volume.

Beyond operational efficiency, Emirates’ comprehensive noise reduction strategy prioritises:

• Strict compliance with noise abatement procedures and airport curfews.
• Use of noise-preferential runways whenever safe and practical.
• Transparent monitoring, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement through mandatory crew reporting.
• Collaborative engagement with airport authorities and communities to share best practices and enhance transparency.

An aviation economist, Dr. Marcus Ellison, noted that “Emirates’ performance at JFK is not just a win for the airline but a model for balancing aviation growth with environmental responsibility. Their fleet strategy and operational discipline are setting new benchmarks for global carriers.”