Leeds City Council has issued a Certificate of Lawful Existing Use confirming that up to 941 annual night-time movements by aircraft below 87 EPNdB are lawful at the Yeadon airport.
The decision, dated May 13, 2026, relates to operations carried out under a planning permission granted in 2007. However, the authority ruled there was insufficient evidence to support the airport’s wider claim that an unlimited number of such flights should be considered lawful.
In its decision notice, the council said the submitted material “does not demonstrate on the balance of probabilities the lawful operation of unlimited aircraft movements” during night-time hours. Instead, it concluded historic usage supports a cap of 941 flights per calendar year.
The certificate, issued under Section 191 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, does not grant new planning permission but confirms a specific level of use as legally established and therefore immune from enforcement.
While the ruling gives the airport formal planning protection for that level of night activity, any increase beyond it could require further approval or risk enforcement action.
The application relates specifically to quieter aircraft not already exempt under an existing condition controlling night flights at the site.
Leeds Bradford Airport welcomed the decision, saying it provides clarity on its operations and confirms compliance with existing limits.
A spokesperson said: “We are pleased with the decision by Leeds City Council, which confirms our long-held position that LBA has operated responsibly and in full compliance with night flight regulations over the last three years.
“This decision provides much-needed certainty for our partners, our passengers, and the local community.”
The airport added the outcome confirmed it had not breached movement limits in 2023, 2024 or 2025, and said it would continue working with the council “to develop a sustainable long-term framework” for flights.
LBA said it remains committed to reducing noise through its “Together for Tomorrow” strategy, including working with airlines to introduce quieter, more fuel-efficient aircraft.
The decision is likely to feed into ongoing debates around airport expansion and noise, with campaigners frequently raising concerns about night-time operations.
Group for Action on Leeds Bradford Airport (GALBA) has long campaigned against night flights (Image: submitted)
Local Liberal Democrat councillor Sandy Lay (Otley and Yeadon) said many residents would feel frustrated by the outcome.
“As someone who lives under the flight path, I understand the frustration and disappointment many residents will feel,” he said.
“At the same time, I remain supportive of Leeds Bradford Airport and recognise the important role it plays in the local economy, jobs, holiday travel and connectivity.”
Councillor Lay said he was disappointed the issue had arisen following the airport’s original application and a Planning Inspector’s ruling that newer, quieter aircraft were not covered by existing permissions.
“That decision effectively brought the matter back before the council to determine, which they have done recognising their legal responsibilities,” he added.
He welcomed the rejection of the airport’s bid for unlimited movements but warned the approved level remained significant.
“An additional 941 aircraft movements per year is still considerable, particularly for residents affected by night-time operations,” he said.
“While the aircraft may be quieter than older models, many residents will still be concerned about the cumulative impact over time. I would urge the airport to exercise restraint and remain mindful of the disruption experienced by local communities.”
The applicant has the right to appeal to the Planning Inspectorate if it disputes the council’s refusal to certify unlimited use.