This 2022 FAA guidance letter explains how airports can legally spend airport revenue on noise insulation projects, such as new windows, doors, and air conditioning, for homes and schools located within the DNL 65 dBA noise contour — the federal threshold for significant aircraft noise impact. Spending airport revenue on noise insulation for properties outside that noise boundary is generally prohibited as revenue diversion, unless a lower local noise standard has been officially adopted or 'block rounding' has been approved. The letter also clarifies that airports may purchase mobile or permanent noise monitoring equipment using airport revenue, provided certain conditions are met, but monitors cannot be used to enforce noise abatement flight procedures.Open full document
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This FAA Compliance Guidance Letter establishes policy for the use of airport revenue for noise insulation projects within and outside the DNL 65 dBA noise contour. It clarifies eligibility requirements for AIP grants, Passenger Facility Charges, and airport revenue for sound insulation projects, noting that properties outside the DNL 65 dBA contour are generally ineligible unless a lower local standard is adopted or block rounding is approved. The letter also addresses allowable uses of airport revenue for purchasing mobile and permanent noise monitoring equipment.
