A cap may need to be placed on the number of flights flying in and out of the Gold Coast Airport after more than 38,000 complaints were lodged over aircraft noise during 2011. 

Figures released by Airservices Australia showed that the complaints were made by those living further afield from the airport and with many more residents around the area concerned over sound after the airport drafted a plan showing aircraft movements would double to 222 by 2031, Bulletin reported.

With Tiger Airways planning an increase in services to the region during 2012, Airport Central Corridor Alliance representative John Alcorn told the source that the low-cost carrier’s aircraft were among the most silent but eventually a cap would be needed.

"Maybe Coolangatta airport will have to reach a point where you say that's enough planes ... at some stage you have to look at the people in the flight path and ask should it keep getting bigger," Mr Alcorn said.

Of the 38,000 complaints up to 1,000 residents were responsible for lodging them with up to 1,512 linked to helicopter activity.

An Airservices Australia spokesperson told media that each complaint was taken into account and the Group was consistently working with airlines and airports to check feedback and figures.

"It is important to note that the overwhelming majority of complaints from residents around the Gold Coast relate to noise from jet aircraft,” the spokesperson said.

"All complaints and inquiries received by the Noise Complaints and Information Service are documented and recorded in our complaints database.

"The NCIS investigates trends and issues, and identifies opportunities for improvements that may reduce the environmental impact of aircraft operations."