Outdoor engine tests: At night, only with special permission

At Leipzig/Halle Airport, aircraft engines may generally only be tested at night in the designated hangar. In July, the Saxon Aviation Authority had authorized the airport to conduct outdoor test runs only between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Since then, three exceptions for nighttime testing have been granted, according to Jörg Puchmüller, the aircraft noise protection officer, following the fall meeting of the Aircraft Noise Commission.

Tests Following Maintenance Work

During such tests, technicians run the engines on the ground after maintenance work to check their operation. The airport had requested permission to conduct these test runs outdoors around the clock even when the designated hangar cannot be used.

Exceptions Only Subject to Conditions

Up to four exceptions per month are possible. Only airlines involved in cargo operations at the airport may apply for them. The Saxony State Directorate’s Aviation Authority must approve the request. An exception is only considered if an unforeseen, compelling operational reason makes a daytime test impossible and no suitable replacement aircraft can be made available in time. Scheduled operations in the flight plan do not justify an exception.

The aircraft noise protection officer monitors compliance with the requirements. Between 250 and 300 such tests are required annually at the airport for maintenance purposes.