Airport Noise Regulations

All sounds come from a sound source. It takes energy to produce this sound, and this energy is transmitted through the air in sound waves, or tiny, quick oscillations of pressure just above and just below atmospheric pressure. These oscillations, or sound pressures, impinge on the ear, creating the sound that humans can hear. The denser the air, the better conductor of sound waves, and the less dense air is a poorer conductor of sound waves.

Much of the sound generated by an aircraft is the result of moving air. As air moves through a jet engine, past a propeller, or over a wing, it is deflected and accelerated resulting in turbulence as it mixes with the surrounding air. These changes in airflow can generate significant sound levels. There are many different terms used in the discussion of aircraft noise.

While these sound levels can be measured in many different ways, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provides guidelines for the measurement and presentation of data. The following acoustic terms are defined in easier to understand terms to help visitors to better understand the information presented.

More about Airport Noise Programs.