How does the FAA model noise?

The FAA models aircraft noise by using sophisticated computer models to predict the levels of aircraft noise exposure produced over a geographic area. Noise models are used to efficiently and accurately evaluate aircraft noise including assessing the potential noise impacts resulting from changes in aircraft operations.

The Aviation Environmental Design Tool (AEDT) is the FAA's required noise and environmental modeling application for all U.S. domestic regulatory analyses requiring FAA review. AEDT incorporates an extensive aircraft performance database as well as detailed aircraft noise and emissions information to accurately conduct environmental analysis around airports and the surrounding airspace.