TagAirport Noise Law(32)
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1996-03-27
Final Decision on Noise Issues – Expert Arbitration Panel’s Review of Sea-Tac International Airport
★In March 1996, an Expert Arbitration Panel reviewed whether the Port of Seattle had met noise reduction requirements set by the Puget Sound Regional Council as a condition for approving a third runway at Sea-Tac International Airport. A majority of the Panel concluded that, despite the Port's extensive noise abatement programs, it had not demonstrated a sufficient reduction in real, on-the-ground noise impacts to satisfy Resolution A-93-03. This decision left the noise condition as the sole remaining hurdle for authorizing the third runway's construction. -
1985-01-25
Resolution No. 2943 – Updated Noise Remedy Program
★ 32Resolution No. 2943 was adopted by the Port Commission of the Port of Seattle to update the Noise Remedy Program for Sea-Tac International Airport, replacing the earlier noise remedy element from the 1976 Sea-Tac Communities Plan. The resolution authorizes property acquisition in high-noise areas, implementation of nine noise abatement measures, and a Demonstration Project (budgeted at up to $1 million) to test alternatives to acquisition such as noise insulation and transaction assistance for affected homeowners. Priority for remedies is given based on noise intensity, length of residency, and financial hardship, with annual progress reports required to guide ongoing program evaluation. -
1978-09-01
Policy Advisory Committee for Sea-Tac Plan Implementation
★This 1978 document outlines the structure and functions of a Policy Advisory Committee (PAC) formed to oversee implementation of the Sea-Tac Airport Communities Plan, including long-term monitoring of airport noise issues and making recommendations to King County and Port of Seattle officials. The 12-member committee draws representatives from King County, local governments, businesses, schools, airlines, and community citizens. It also details noise exemption rules for daytime aircraft testing and maintenance at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, specifying conditions such as permitted hours (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) and geographic boundaries defined by the 'NEF 45' noise exposure contour line. -
2025-12-21
A guide to U.S. aircraft noise regulatory policy
This book by Sanford Fidell and Vincent Mestre provides a comprehensive guide to U.S. aircraft noise regulatory policy, covering the rules, standards, and government frameworks that govern how aircraft noise is measured, evaluated, and controlled. It is a key reference for understanding how federal agencies approach noise management around airports such as Sea-Tac, including the metrics and legal structures used to assess community noise impacts. -
2025-12-21
Airport Noise: A Guide to the FAA Regulations Under the Airport Noise and Capacity Act
This guide, produced by law firm Cutler & Stanfield in conjunction with acoustical consultants Harris Miller Miller & Hanson Inc., explains FAA regulations governing airport noise under the Airport Noise and Capacity Act. It is intended to help airport proprietors, community organizations, and local governments understand the federal rules that control aircraft noise levels and airport operational capacity. The guide draws on the firms' extensive experience advising clients on noise policy and drafting noise rules at major airports across the United States. -
D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals Cracks Down on FAA Compliance with NEPA
A legal article categorized under 'Aviation & Airport' reports that the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals cracked down on FAA compliance with NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act). The publication appears to be from a legal news outlet with a red 'IL' or 'JL' logo. -
FAA Part 150 Airport Noise Compatibility Planning — eCFR Title 14 Overview
Screenshot of the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR) showing Title 14 (Aeronautics and Space), Chapter I (Federal Aviation Administration), Subchapter I (Airports), Part 150 (Airport Noise Compatibility Planning), sections 150.1–150.35, including Subparts A, B, and C, plus Appendices A and B covering Noise Exposure Maps and Noise Compatibility Programs. -
Aircraft landing over Gravelly Point Park in Arlington, VA
A commercial jet on final approach to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport flies low over a public park where visitors relax on the grass. The Washington Monument is visible on the right side of the frame, confirming the location as the Washington D.C. area. -
2025-01-23
HB 1303 Bill Analysis – Increasing environmental justice by improving government decisions
Washington State House Bill 1303 proposes strengthening environmental justice by adding new requirements to the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) review process, requiring environmental justice impact statements for projects in vulnerable or overburdened communities. The bill also prohibits state and local air authorities from issuing certain construction approvals for new air pollution sources in those same communities. Note: This bill focuses on statewide environmental permitting and community health protections, and does not directly address Sea-Tac Airport noise policy. -
2024-07-12
14 CFR Part 161 — Notice and approval of airport noise and access restrictions
14 CFR Part 161 sets out the federal rules governing how airports like Sea-Tac must notify the public and obtain FAA approval before imposing noise and access restrictions on aircraft operations. It covers different requirements depending on whether restrictions apply to older Stage 2 aircraft or newer Stage 3 aircraft, including mandatory analysis, public comment periods, and formal FAA review. Airports that fail to follow these procedures risk losing federal grant funds and passenger facility charges.