TagHMMH(15)

These emails, dated October–November 2019, relate to a study of ground-level noise at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport initiated by the StART Aviation Noise Working Group. Noise consultant Brad Nicholas of HMMH sought input from surrounding cities, including Burien (which had suspended its StART membership), on which noise sources to analyze and where to place monitoring equipment. Community advocate Sharyn Parker responded with detailed recommendations, arguing the consultant should first correlate existing noise complaints and monitor records with engine run-up events before soliciting public input, and identifying engine run-ups and reverse thrust as the two primary sources of airfield ground noise.

The 2018 FAA Reauthorization Act (H.R. 302) includes 14 provisions related to aircraft noise, several of which directly affect airports like Sea-Tac, including requirements for updated noise exposure maps, new community noise concern processes, and health impact studies. Key provisions call on the FAA to study alternative noise metrics to replace the current DNL standard, appoint regional ombudsmen to address noise complaints, and review how NextGen flight path changes have affected surrounding communities. Airports are advised to monitor FAA progress on these studies, as potential changes to the 65 dB DNL threshold and other noise compatibility guidelines could significantly impact community relations and environmental reviews.

This white paper analyzes the noise-related provisions of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (H.R. 302), which reauthorized the FAA through fiscal year 2023 and included 14 provisions directly or indirectly addressing aircraft noise. Key measures require the FAA to study alternative noise metrics to replace the Day-Night Average Sound Level (DNL) standard, update Noise Exposure Maps when operations change significantly, and consider dispersal headings for new flight procedures to reduce community noise impacts. Seattle is among the cities specifically identified for a health impacts study related to aviation noise, making these provisions particularly relevant to Sea-Tac Airport stakeholders.

This guide, produced by law firm Kaplan Kirsch & Rockwell and noise consulting firm Harris Miller Miller & Hanson, explains the rules and regulations governing airport noise and aircraft use restrictions at publicly owned airports. It covers who is responsible for regulating airports and aircraft, what tools airports have to manage noise, and the requirements of the Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990. The guide is designed for airport managers, elected officials, consultants, and community groups seeking to understand how noise disputes are handled and resolved.