The plans would land further down the runway

The airline has suggested that landings should be made half-a-mile further down the runway at Heathrow airport.

This would allow planes to fly about 140ft higher over London, cutting noise levels for people who live near to the west London airport.

But critics say BA's plan published in its annual social and environmental report will make no difference to most.

Currently planes normally land only 150 yards from the beginning of the runway at Heathrow.

This plan is deceitful with a capital D John Stewart, from Hacan Clearskies

BA chief executive, Rod Eddington, said: "The success of our business is not just about financial performance.

"It's also about gaining customer and employee loyalty and community trust.

"While we have made improvements in our environmental, social and economic performance, there are many challenges ahead and we are committed to manage responsibly and report openly about our performance."

But John Stewart, from Heathrow Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise (Hacan) Clearskies said: "This plan is deceitful with a capital D.

"Unless you live within a few hundred yards of the airport, the fact that planes are 140ft higher makes no significant difference to the noise you hear.