Burnaby residents and Mayor Mike Hurley are calling for an independent review of aircraft flight paths over the city, which they describe as 'freeways in the sky' causing excessive noise and pollution. The demand comes amid growing frustration with the increasing volume of air traffic from Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
Residents voice concerns over noise and health impacts
At a recent city council meeting, residents presented a petition with over 1,000 signatures, urging the federal government to commission a third-party study of flight path changes implemented in recent years. Many complained that the noise has disrupted sleep, reduced property values, and raised health concerns.
'It's like living under a constant roar,' said John Smith, a Burnaby resident who has lived near the flight path for 15 years. 'We need an independent body to assess the impact, not just the airport authority.'
Mayor calls for federal intervention
Mayor Mike Hurley expressed support for the residents, stating that the current oversight by Nav Canada, the private air navigation service provider, is insufficient. 'We need an independent review that puts the well-being of our community first,' Hurley said. 'The flight paths have turned our skies into freeways, and the burden falls on residents.'
The city council voted unanimously to send a formal request to Transport Canada for an independent assessment of the flight path changes and their environmental and health effects.
Airport authority responds
Vancouver International Airport Authority acknowledged the concerns but defended the flight path changes, which were designed to improve efficiency and reduce delays. In a statement, the authority said it 'remains committed to working with the community and Nav Canada to address noise impacts.'
Nav Canada has previously stated that flight paths are designed based on safety and efficiency, and that noise mitigation is a secondary consideration. However, the agency has agreed to participate in community consultation sessions.
Growing trend across Canada
Burnaby is not alone in its concerns. Similar disputes over flight paths have arisen in Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary, where residents have formed coalitions to demand more transparency and accountability. A 2025 study by the University of British Columbia found that aircraft noise can increase stress levels and sleep disturbances in nearby communities.
The push for an independent review in Burnaby reflects a broader movement to rebalance the priorities of air travel with the quality of life for those on the ground.
