Dallas/Fort Worth Airport employs strategies for monitoring and managing aircraft noise

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Dallas/Fort Worth Airport employs strategies for monitoring and managing aircraft noise

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Airbus A380 | Airbus

By Sky Industry News

Dec 28, 2024

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has implemented several strategies to monitor and manage aircraft noise, maintaining compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations while minimizing impact on surrounding communities. In fiscal year 2024, DFW served 86.9 million passengers through 732,000 flight operations, making it the third-busiest airport globally.

Despite its size, DFW aims to be a responsible neighbor. It is the first carbon-neutral airport in North America and the largest worldwide. The airport employs various methods to track aircraft noise, ensuring minimal disruption to nearby areas.

Aircraft noise reduction has advanced significantly over the years. "Modern jet aircraft are roughly 75% quieter than the first models," according to Aviation Benefits. Despite these improvements, more efforts are necessary from manufacturers, regulatory bodies, airports, and airlines.

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The engines remain the primary source of noise; however, other factors like airframe design and landing gear also contribute. Various elements such as power settings at takeoff and meteorological conditions influence noise levels.

Noise monitoring involves collecting multiple metrics beyond just peak sound levels. The FAA uses several measures: Sound Exposure Level (SEL), Equivalent sound level (LEQ), and Day-night average sound level (DNL). These metrics help create noise contour maps showing affected areas around airports.

To address community concerns about aircraft noise, DFW has installed advanced monitoring equipment in nine cities and three counties nearby. This data is compared with FAA radar information for comprehensive analysis. Additionally, complaints can be directed to the DFW Noise Team via phone or email.

Land-use planning plays a role in minimizing exposure to aircraft noise. Since its opening in 1974, DFW has collaborated with local authorities on zoning rules to limit incompatible development near the airport.

DFW continues to support commercial aviation while reducing its environmental impact as a world leader in sustainable practices.