Airports and land use planning

The EPA has developed an Airport Noise Regulatory concept, including an impact analysis methodology and a readily understandable format for the presentation of results. The regulatory process provides a means of reducing and/or preventing aviation noise impacts via a balanced mix of aviation actions and lead use controls. The analysis methodology which EPA has developed is based upon a comparison of aviation noise and the background levels which are due to all sources other than aviation. Hence, the noise impacts of multi modal systems can be evaluated. Noise criteria have been developed for the classification of airports, by severity of impact, and for goals necessary to protect the public health and welfare. The regulatory process was designed to insure participation of the airport proprietor, local governments, and the general public. Each airport noise abatement plan will be subjected to public scrutiny, in an open hearing, as well as to review by the Federal Aviation Administration, with consulation by the EPA. The process results in an airport operating pier for noise abatement which is basic to land use planning.