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.Open full document
Notes
HMMH analyzes the noise provisions of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (H.R. 302, Pub.L. 115–254), which reauthorizes the FAA through fiscal year 2023. The white paper summarizes the fourteen noise-related provisions within Subtitle D, covering studies on alternative noise metrics, NextGen implementation challenges, supersonic aircraft, and miscellaneous items. It provides a detailed table of each section with HMMH’s interpretation of the implications for US airports.