TagFederal Register(22)

FAA Order JO 7400.2R, effective February 20, 2025, sets out procedures for managing U.S. airspace, covering topics such as objects affecting navigable airspace, airport airspace analysis, terminal and en route airspace, special use airspace, and laser and rocket operations. The order updates policies related to surveillance facilities and airport proposals to reflect modern, contractor-supported National Airspace System technologies. Note that this document addresses broad national airspace management procedures and does not specifically cover Sea-Tac Airport noise policy.

The FAA approved a Noise Compatibility Program (NCP) Update for Naples Municipal Airport in Naples, Florida, effective December 9, 2024. The approved measures include a residential sound insulation program, land use planning recommendations, purchase of avigation easements, and several community outreach and monitoring initiatives. One proposed measure related to revised flight procedures was not acted upon at this time, as it requires further FAA review.

The FAA's Financial Compliance Division issued guidance in December 2024 establishing a testing plan to verify that states and local governments properly direct aviation fuel tax revenues toward airport and aviation purposes, as required by federal regulations. The plan outlines how jurisdictions are selected for review, what financial data they must submit, and how compliance is evaluated — with the State of Washington serving as the initial pilot case for the program.

The FAA issued an updated policy statement in December 2023 governing Air Carrier Incentive Programs (ACIPs), which are programs used by airports to attract new airline service through fee waivers, reduced landing fees, and marketing support. The policy replaces a 2010 guidebook and establishes clearer rules to ensure incentive programs comply with federal grant requirements, including prohibitions on using airport revenue to directly subsidize airlines and requirements for public transparency. While focused on commercial airports nationwide, the policy is relevant to any airport operator seeking to understand the boundaries of legally permissible incentives for attracting or retaining air service.

The U.S. Department of Transportation is seeking public input to help develop a national strategy for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), which includes electric and hybrid-electric aircraft capable of vertical or short takeoff and landing. The strategy aims to address safety, infrastructure, community impacts, and regulatory frameworks for these emerging aircraft technologies. While this notice does not specifically address Sea-Tac Airport or local noise policy, noise reduction compared to traditional aviation is cited as one potential benefit of AAM operations.

The Federal Aviation Administration announces its approval of the noise compatibility program for John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), effective March 14, 2023. The program contains 22 recommended measures including noise abatement, land use, and program management measures to reduce aviation noise impacts.

Federal Register containing two notices: USTR’s determination to extend 352 reinstated Chinese trade exclusions through September 2023, and FAA’s approval of LaGuardia Airport’s noise compatibility program with 23 proposed measures including noise abatement and land use measures.