This article was published by our sister organization, the Montgomery County Quiet Skies Coalition. May 5
A new organization calling itself the Capital Access Alliance is urging Congress to eliminate the long-standing perimeter rule at Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). Doing so would allow unlimited long-haul flights to arrive and depart at DCA. Airplanes used for long-haul flights are significantly larger and heavier than those used for regional flights, therefore they produce more noise disturbance. Also they tend to depart in the early morning and arrive late at night because they are departing to or taking off from far-off destinations. This means the noise problems they create are even more impactful than the other 400+ arriving and 400+ departing flights per day at DCA, which already disturb the sleep and quality of life of many thousands of residents.
Montgomery County Quiet Skies Coalition
https://www.mocoquietskies.org/updates/oqn0fhketj946jmqueatrguhi444xx
The following op-ed appeared in the Washington Post on May 24th
Opinion: Congress Should Not Tell Reagan National How To Operate
Our Maryland Congressional delegation has written a letter to other members of Congress stating their position that the perimeter rule at DCA should not be legislatively altered.
The Capital Access Alliance's proposal to eliminate the perimeter rule at Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) raises valid concerns about the potential increase in noise disturbance and its impact on the quality of life for residents in the surrounding areas.
The perimeter rule at DCA was implemented to limit the distance of nonstop flights to and from the airport, in order to manage noise levels and congestion. By allowing only regional flights and certain exemptions, the rule helps to mitigate the impact on local communities.
Long-haul flights typically involve larger and heavier aircraft, which can generate more noise compared to regional flights. Moreover, their departure and arrival times may be outside the usual operating hours, potentially exacerbating the disturbance for residents during early morning and late-night hours.
Over 400 arriving and departing flights daily at DCA pose a significant noise challenge for the surrounding communities. Introducing unlimited long-haul flights without proper noise mitigation measures could significantly worsen the situation.
When considering any changes to airport operations, it is crucial to balance accessibility and the well-being of residents. Any decision to eliminate the perimeter rule should involve careful evaluation of the potential impact on noise levels and the community's quality of life. The concerns of residents and other stakeholders should be taken into account during the decision-making process to ensure a fair and equitable outcome
Airport noise refers to the sound generated by aircraft during takeoff, landing, and taxiing on the runway. It is a common concern for people living near airports, as the noise can have various impacts on their quality of life. Here are some key points about airport noise:
Sources of Airport Noise: The main sources of airport noise are aircraft engines, particularly jet engines, which produce a significant amount of noise during operation. Other sources include auxiliary power units (APUs), ground support equipment, and aircraft movement on the runway.
Noise Levels: The noise generated by aircraft is typically measured in decibels (dB). Takeoff and landing phases produce the most significant noise levels, which can range from around 100 dB to over 120 dB. Taxiing and ground operations generally produce lower noise levels but can still be noticeable.
Factors Affecting Noise Levels: Several factors contribute to the noise levels experienced by individuals living near airports. These factors include the type of aircraft, engine design, flight path, altitude, and distance from the runway. Additionally, environmental factors such as weather conditions can influence how sound propagates.
Health and Environmental Impacts: Excessive exposure to airport noise can have negative effects on human health, including sleep disturbances, stress, and increased risk of cardiovascular issues. It can also disrupt communication, affect concentration, and decrease overall quality of life for individuals residing in affected areas. Airport noise can also impact wildlife and ecosystems, particularly in areas close to airports.
Noise Mitigation Measures: Airport authorities and aircraft manufacturers employ various strategies to mitigate airport noise. These measures include implementing noise abatement procedures, optimizing flight paths, using quieter aircraft engines, and installing sound barriers and insulation in affected buildings. However, complete elimination of airport noise is challenging due to the nature of aviation operations.
Regulatory Framework: Many countries have regulations in place to manage and control airport noise. These regulations often set limits on noise levels, impose restrictions on nighttime flights, and require airports to develop noise management plans. Noise monitoring and community engagement programs are also part of these regulatory frameworks.
Community Engagement: Airports often engage with local communities to address concerns related to airport noise. This can involve public consultations, establishing community advisory committees, and implementing programs to inform residents about noise levels and mitigation efforts.
It's important to note that specific noise levels and mitigation strategies can vary depending on the airport and its surrounding area. If you have concerns about airport noise, it is advisable to contact the relevant airport authority or local government for more information on specific measures and initiatives in your area.
Sources of information Airport noise and pollution
Working-Class Americans Inhale Private Jet Fumes; National Public Radio, Dec. 26, 2022
Information about the severe health risks of aircraft noise and concentrated flight paths, go to
Study: Airport Flight Patterns Influence Health Care Costs; The Business Monthly, Oct. 3, 2022
In the years leading up to the pandemic, aviation emitted roughly a billion metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, about as much as the entire continent of South America in 2021. - New York Times Feb. 6, 2023
Information
I received this information from Anne Hollander - Montgomery County Quiet Skies Coalition.
Subject: New Helicopter Noise Complaint System for National Capital Region
So many of us have been disturbed by low-flying helicopters. We finally got a method to file Helicopter noise complaints.
https://www.arlnow.com/press-releases/beyer-regional-officials-unveil-new-helicopter-noise-complaint-system/
A 2021 report by the General Accounting Office (GAO), originally requested by Beyer and other members of the [Quiet Skies] Caucus, [including MD Representative Jamie Raskin], recommended that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) “develop a mechanism to exchange helicopter noise information with operators in the D.C. area.” The just-announced pilot program was developed with this recommendation in mind and will be evaluated by FAA for potential permanent adoption after a 60-day trial run.
“It is important to note that this system is a pilot program, and its success depends on our community. Anyone with a helicopter noise complaint can submit it online at plainenoise.com/dcmetro/, by phone at 877-209-3200, or via mobile app. Providing as much information as possible when leaving a complaint is crucial – details will help to review and process the complaint.
Demand regulations that would make airlines liable for noise and pollution on the ground.
Airport pollution linked to acute health effects among people with asthma in Los Angeles
CONGRESSIONAL QUIET SKIES CAUCUS
To read articles on increased noise and what we can do about it, click this link:
Click here to file Noise Complaints: https://viewpoint.emsbk.com/dca3
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