TagNoise Abatement Procedures(57)

A January 1984 Port of Seattle memorandum notifies the Technical Working Committee of an upcoming meeting on January 25 to review noise remedy programs for Jackson (Sea-Tac) International Airport, including land acquisition, purchase assurance, and sound insulation proposals. Attached is a draft chapter evaluating on-airport and off-airport noise abatement measures against ten criteria, such as airspace compatibility and aircraft safety. The document outlines which measures were recommended for implementation following an initial screening process described in an earlier chapter.

In December 1983, the FAA completed an aeronautical study of a proposal by the Port of Seattle to eliminate the 'right-turn' departure route for eastbound turbojet aircraft leaving Sea-Tac Airport (Runway 34) during daytime hours. The study found that removing this route would simply shift aircraft noise to other communities, increase airline operating costs by an estimated $1.5 million annually, and raise fuel consumption, without providing a net noise reduction benefit. As a result, the Port of Seattle withdrew its proposal and the FAA declined to eliminate the existing noise abatement route.

This 1983 FAA Advisory Circular (AC 150/5020-1) provides guidance for airports on noise control and land-use compatibility planning under FAR Part 150 and the Aviation Safety and Noise Abatement Act of 1979. It outlines a standardized system for measuring airport noise, identifying compatible and incompatible land uses near airports, and developing Noise Exposure Maps and Noise Compatibility Programs. Participation in the program is voluntary, and it aims to reduce existing noise conflicts around airports while preventing new incompatible development through cooperation among airport operators, planners, and community members.

This draft planning document outlines sixteen potential programs to address aircraft noise impacts near Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, ranging from government acquisition and demolition of affected properties to zoning changes and development controls. Each program is described along with a pros-and-cons analysis to help community members and decision-makers evaluate the options. The programs include measures such as converting noisy areas to open space, offering purchase assistance to affected homeowners, granting noise easements, soundproofing buildings, and providing property advisory services.

A detailed evaluation of noise abatement operational and technological changes for Sea-Tac Airport, including recommendations on reverse thrust operations, flight paths, aircraft modifications, and airport ground operations. The document contains handwritten comments and technical feasibility assessments for each proposed noise reduction measure.

Senate Bill No. 3076, introduced by Senators Dore, Mardesich, and Day on January 17, 1974, proposes giving Washington's Department of Social and Health Services the authority to regulate and control noise pollution, including emissions from motor vehicles and aircraft. The bill would allow the department to set noise level limits, investigate complaints, and seek injunctions against violators. Anyone found in violation could face a misdemeanor charge and a fine of up to $100 per offense.