We strive to maintain open and positive lines of communication, and we want to share some insights into our approach to ensure efficient and meaningful responses.

Many residents may choose to voice their concerns through multiple form letters or messages. While we appreciate the engagement, if an inquiry is similar to one previously received, we acknowledge and track the message without providing an additional response. This is not meant to discourage communication but rather to streamline our responses, avoid duplication, and limit human error by continually rephrasing the same message. This also highlights our commitment to handling each inquiry individually. Although it's not uncommon for us to receive a high volume of auto-generated emails from a single individual, responding to each unique inquiry may not result in a change in response, especially when there is no new information to provide. 

To maintain the quality of communication, we do not respond to complaints or inquiries from third-party automated applications or devices. This helps prevent the influx of repeat complaints and ensures that we can address concerns effectively.

It's crucial to note that our jurisdiction primarily covers aircraft noise, environmental issues, air safety, airspace regulations, and other commercial aviation-related concerns. Inquiries outside this scope, such as those related to military aircraft, lost baggage, or airline customer service, will likely not receive a researched response as they fall outside our purview.

Additionally, to ensure effective handling of complaints, providing detailed and relevant information is essential. In cases where messages lack clarity or sufficient information, we may attempt to contact the resident for additional details. However, if there is no communication from the resident within seven days, we may close the concern without a response. This underscores the importance of providing comprehensive information when submitting a complaint. 

Nationwide Data

In 2023, the FAA received 11,999 aviation noise complaints from 3,416 individuals. Of that number, 1,343 complaints filed came from 21 individuals, accounting for 11.19 percent of our total noise complaints filed. Of the 21 individuals, 711 complaints or 5.93 percent were filed by one individual.

This data underscores the significant impact a small group of individuals can have on reporting data for aviation noise issues. It also prompts questions about the nature of these complaints, factors driving frequent reporting beyond aggravation (if any), and the effectiveness of current channels for addressing concerns.

Analyzing complaint patterns can help the FAA devise strategies to improve communication, address concerns, and enhance the overall experience for all stakeholders affected by aircraft noise.

Nationwide Map of Complaints and Inquiries by Top Zip Codes

The graph below depicts the monthly variation in the number of complaints and inquires received over 12 months in 2023.  Complaints in January are the highest month for complaints for Fixed-Wing aircraft, this is likely due to the increase in holiday travel. The number of complaints increases again in May, a time characterized by sunny weather conditions, which are ideal for general aviation flights. Additionally, during warmer months, people are more likely to spend time outdoors with windows open, increasing their sensitivity to aircraft noise. Conversely, in colder months, people tend to stay indoors more often, which can reduce the perception of aircraft noise.

Seasonal Variation of Complaints and Inquiries by Aircraft Type, for Year 2023

Aircraft Types

Aircraft can be broadly categorized into several types based on their design, function, and operational characteristics. Here are some common types of aircraft:

• Fixed-Wing Aircraft: These are airplanes with wings that generate lift as they move through the air. Fixed-wing aircraft include various types such as:
  • Commercial airliners
  • General aviation aircraft (such as single-engine piston aircraft and business jets)
  • Military aircraft (including fighter jets, bombers, and transport planes)
• Rotorcraft: These aircraft generate lift by spinning rotor blades, which include:
  • Helicopters: Aircraft with one or more main rotors providing lift and thrust.
  • Gyroplanes: Also known as autogyros, they have unpowered rotors that rotate freely and are driven forward by an engine-powered propeller.
• Lighter-Than-Air Aircraft: These aircraft use buoyant gases to generate lift and include:
  • Balloons: Non-steerable aircraft filled with hot air (hot air balloons) or gas (gas balloons).
  • Airships: Steerable aircraft filled with a lighter-than-air gas such as helium or hydrogen.
• Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): Also known as drones, these aircraft are remotely piloted or autonomously operated and serve various purposes such as surveillance, reconnaissance, and delivery.
• Gliders: These are unpowered aircraft that use air currents to maintain altitude and forward motion. Gliders are often used for recreational flying and competition.
• Experimental Aircraft: These are aircraft built for research, testing, or personal use, often featuring innovative designs or technologies.
• Amphibious Aircraft: These aircraft are capable of taking off and landing on both land and water, making them suitable for operations in diverse environments.
• Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) Aircraft: These aircraft can take off, hover, and land vertically without the need for a runway. Examples include some helicopters, tiltrotor aircraft, and vertical takeoff and landing drones.

These are just a few examples, and within each category, there are many variations and specialized aircraft designed for specific purposes, such as firefighting, medivac, search and rescue, agricultural spraying, and more. 
For more information on aircraft operating characteristics, please visit the links below:

• Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
• Title 14 CFR By Part and Section - Part 91 - GENERAL OPERATING AND FLIGHT RULES

Seasonable Factors

Some reasons why aircraft noise complaints may have seasonal variation:

• Tourism and Travel: Areas with high tourist traffic may experience an increase in aircraft noise complaints during peak travel seasons. Popular tourist destinations often see an influx of flights during holidays and vacation periods, leading to higher levels of aircraft noise.
• Special Events: Airshows, festivals, and other special events that involve increased air traffic can result in temporary spikes in airplane noise complaints during specific times of the year.
• School Schedules: Aircraft noise near educational institutions may be more noticeable during school hours, leading to an increase in complaints when schools are in session.
• Construction and Infrastructure Projects: Construction projects at airports or in surrounding areas can impact flight paths and increase noise levels, leading to higher numbers of complaints during construction periods.
• Flight Patterns: Changes in flight patterns, such as runway renovations or adjustments to air traffic control procedures, can result in shifts in noise exposure for affected communities, potentially leading to seasonal variations in complaints.

Overall, while aircraft noise complaints may exhibit seasonal trends, the specific factors influencing these patterns can vary widely depending on local conditions and circumstances. Additional review is needed to better understand how seasonal changes may affect noise complaints among different types of aircraft. However, community engagement, effective communication between airports and residents, and the implementation of noise mitigation measures are important for addressing concerns and managing airplane noise impacts throughout the year. 

The Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK), is a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in aviation – not just pilots. It offers essential knowledge for safe and effective navigation through the skies, covering everything from the basics of flight to airspace regulations. This handbook provides clear explanations and practical guidance, making it an invaluable tool for understanding the history, evolution, and factors shaping aviation and aircraft operations in the United States.

The FAA responds to many helicopter concerns each year. It’s important to note that altitude rules for helicopters depend on various factors, including airspace regulations, operational requirements, and safety considerations. Here's an overview of some common altitude rules for helicopters:

• Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR): In the United States, helicopters must comply with FAR Part 91, which outlines general operating rules for civil aviation. According to these regulations, helicopters must maintain a minimum safe altitude of 500 feet above the ground, except when operating over open water or sparsely populated areas, where they must maintain a minimum altitude that allows for an emergency landing without undue hazard to persons or property on the surface.
• Airspace Classes: Helicopters, like fixed-wing aircraft, must adhere to the altitude restrictions specified for different airspace classes:
  • Class A: Helicopters are not typically allowed to operate in Class A airspace, which starts at 18,000 feet above mean sea level (MSL).
  • Class B, C, and D: Helicopters must follow altitude restrictions specified by air traffic control (ATC) when operating in controlled airspace surrounding airports.
  • Class E and G: Helicopters have more flexibility in these uncontrolled airspaces, but they must still maintain a minimum safe altitude as per FARs.
• Operational Requirements: Helicopter operations may have specific altitude requirements based on factors such as:
• Mission type: Depending on the mission, such as aerial firefighting, medivac, search and rescue, or law enforcement, helicopters may need to operate at specific altitudes to optimize safety and efficiency.
• Obstacle clearance: Pilots must consider obstacles like buildings, terrain features, and power lines when determining safe operating altitudes, especially during takeoff, landing, and low-level flight.
• Manufacturer Recommendations: Helicopter manufacturers provide guidance on recommended operating altitudes for their specific aircraft models, taking into account performance characteristics, environmental factors, and safety considerations.

Overall, while there are general altitude rules and guidelines for helicopter operations, pilots must assess various factors, including airspace regulations, operational requirements, and safety considerations, to determine the appropriate altitude for each flight. Additionally, compliance with applicable regulations and adherence to safe operating practices are essential to ensure the safety of helicopter operations. 

Explore the FAA website for comprehensive information on helicopter operations, review the Helicopter Flying Handbook, or visit the Dynamic Regulatory System (DRS), a comprehensive knowledge center that combines more than 52 aviation safety guidance document types, found in a dozen or more different repositories, into a single searchable application. It includes all information found in the Flight Standards Information System and the agency's Regulatory Guidance System.