HEATHROW Airport will begin a trial of steeper approaches for planes landing from September in a bid to reduce noise. 

The international airport believes a steeper angle will lead to quieter approaches to the airport and reduce aircraft noise for residents living underneath flightpaths. 

The trial forms one of ten steps Heathrow is taking in its 'Blueprint for Noise Reduction' and is due to start on September 14 and run until March 16, 2016. 

If adopted, it will be the only airport in the UK to introduce steeper approaches as a means to reduce noise on the ground.

Heathrow claim the blueprint to reduce noise will mean less people would be blighted by aircraft noise even if the airport were to build a third runway. 

Matt Gorman, Heathrow Director of Sustainability and Environment said: “Heathrow has changed, and taken a new approach to addressing our impacts on communities, including when it comes to noise. Our Blueprint to cut aircraft noise have been driven by feedback from local communities.  It role is to challenge the industry to think innovatively about ways to reduce noise.

"Steeper approaches are just one step in the right direction, and along with other quieter operating procedures and incentives to bring quieter aircraft into operation, will ensure fewer people are affected by noise, even with an expanded airport.”

A large number of airlines are expected to take part in the optional trial, which has been approved by the Civil Aviation Authority.

The international standard approach for most airports in the world is set at 3 degrees, except for obstacle clearance (e.g. buildings, mountains etc.).

The trial will test if steeper approaches of up to 3.5 degrees to the airport is possible by monitoring planes coming in at an angle of 3.2 degrees with mobile noist monitors. 

Residents around the airport wishing to learn more about the trial are encouraged to contact our Community Relations Team at 0800 344 844  or email noise@heathrow.com