LBA’s Section 73 planning application briefing, October 2025

In October 2025, LBA sent a briefing (link above) to all members of the City Plans Panel, announcing the airport's intention to make a Section 73 application to completely change the night time flying conditions.

In the end, that application was not made because LBA chose to apply for a Certificate of Lawful Existing Use or Development (CLEUD) instead. Although it was awarded, the CLEUD did not give LBA everything they wanted.

We now understand that LBA will submit the s73 application to re-write the night flight rules in 2026. We also understand that the 2026 application will mirror the proposals set out in the October 2025 briefing to CPP members.

You can read the briefing below. You can also read our responses to LBA’s briefing. We cover:

• the difference between the current night flight rules and LBA’s proposal, which would result in a significant increase in summer season night flights – click here
• the health impacts of noise and the latest DfT research – click here
• the health impacts of frequent night time noise – click here
• the economic claims made by LBA – click here
• the climate impact of allowing LBA to expand, based on LBA’s ‘Vision 2030’ strategy – click here