How can we preserve and promote compatible land use in the age of shrinking aircraft noise contours?

Abstract

Technological advances in source noise reduction combined with legislated or economics-driven changes in fleet mix composition have created the age of shrinking noise contours at many airports, even though the number of operations continues to increase. All too often, the majority of noise complaints come from residents located outside the airports Day–Night Average Sound Level (DNL) 65-dB noise contour, which is the threshold of compatibility established in the FAAs land use compatibility guidelines. If the local community feels strongly that their threshold of compatibility is less than DNL 65 dB, what can they do about it? The FAA will recognize a locally established standard and approve mitigation measures based on that standard. However, with that comes a responsibility on the part of the local jurisdictions to implement measures to prevent development of new noncompatible land uses in areas exposed to noise levels above their threshold of compatibility. This is crucial since the FAA will not approve or fund remedial mitigation of new noncompatible land uses built after October 1, 1998. This paper will explore ways the airport operator, the surrounding community, and the local jurisdictions may all be able to get what they want, with the blessing and funding of the FAA.