History:

The Airports Authority has a long history of addressing aircraft noise concerns in the metropolitian Washington, D.C. region by working with residents, elected officials, the FAA, airlines and pilots to acheive the mutual goal of safe airport operations while limiting the number of residents exposed to aircraft overflights and associated noise.

Historically, the Airports Authority partnered with the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments on many regional aircraft noise issues including site selction of all noise monitor locations and the development of the 2004 Ronald Reagan Washington National Part 150 Noise Compatibiltiy Study Update.  The Council of Governments' Aviation Policy Committee was a key partner during the Part 150 Update and was responsible for conducting the Community Outreach Survey, as well as the communications between residents, elected officials and other participants.  The Council of Governments disbanned the Aviation Policy Committee in 2011.

Community Outreach:

The Airports Authority continues its outreach to industry stakeholders in response to community concerns regarding aircraft noise along the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers.  Recently, an increase in complaints has been attributed to several key issues including the FAA's implementation of its Next Generation Air Transportation (NextGen) program resulting in consolidated flight paths; airline schedule changes to accommodate early and late-night travel demand; and an increase in community and media awareness.

In October 2015, a Reagan National Community Noise Working Group was established to engage broad-based community participation to identify practical aircraft noise solutions and recommendations to the FAA.  Working Group voting stakeholders include community members appointed by elected officials from local jurisdictions, and two airline representatives.  The Airports Authority serves as the facilitator for Working Group meetings and recommendations.  The Airports Authority and FAA serve as non-voting, advisory Working Group members.