Lille-Lesquin puts nighttime flights on hold
After months of lively discussions among residents, elected officials, and airlines, Lille-Lesquin is finally making a move: no planes will take off between midnight and 6 AM until October 2025, except in exceptional cases (emergency flights or public missions). This measure, announced by the airport, is part of a proactive approach to reduce the noise disturbances that have been troubling residents' nights.
Less noise, more tranquility
This decision marks a delightful step forward: in 2024, the airport still had 438 takeoffs in the middle of the night. This year, that's over! This concretely means a reduction of 8.5% in nighttime flights compared to last year.
To make this happen, the airport has skillfully optimized its time slots with the airlines. The result: more than 60% of the remaining flights are now concentrated between 10 PM and midnight. Less noise and more tranquility—this is the promise for the summer of 2025!
A real curfew soon?
This suspension of nighttime flights is certainly not the end of the debate. In February, the European Metropolis of Lille (MEL) voted unanimously for a total curfew between 11 PM and 6 AM. But this decision is still waiting on a prefectural decree that hasn’t arrived yet.
On its side, the airport management warns: a total curfew could lead airlines like Volotea, based in Lille, to look for other options. The economic balance against the tranquility of local residents: the debate is far from over.
In the meantime, let’s enjoy the long-awaited nighttime calm. Who knows, maybe the summer of 2025 will finally mark the end of early wakes due to airplane engines at Lesquin?
Lille-Lesquin Airport
Route de l'Aéroport, Lesquin
