The regulation was drafted by the Ministries of Infrastructure and Water Management and Defence. It took into account 110 responses to the online consultation held in the summer.
The majority of responses requested more explanation about the regulation. Additionally, local residents expressed concerns about their quality of living environment if Defence increases flights. Previously, there was a maximum of 400 movements. There were also positive reactions. Residents acknowledged the importance of Defence being able to fly and train.
The reason for the regulation is the new Airport Decree for the Groningen airfield. According to the Aviation Act, a separate regulation must be made for military co-use. This must comply with limit values and other rules in the Airport Decree, such as opening hours and noise pollution. This regulation is separate from the National Programme Space for Defence (NPRD).
Humanitarian aid
It is very important to also open civilian airports to the military. They have tasks involving deploying aircraft that provide humanitarian aid. But also for government flights, operational flights, and exercises for readiness. Additionally, it may concern Defence missions, (support of) flights in allied cooperation, and support of the Police Special Intervention Service.
Fighter jets
The use of military fighter jets is not covered by the regulation. The F-35 therefore cannot take off or land at Eelde, except in cases of emergency or precautionary landings. Training and instructional flights with aircraft heavier than 6000 kilograms are also not allowed. This also applies to training and instructional flights with jet aircraft.
Read more in the ‘Regulation on military airport air traffic at other civilian airports of national significance’.
See here the submitted responses with answers in the main report.
