A 14 CFR Part 150 Aircraft Noise Compatibility Study identifies incompatible land use around airports and recommends measures to (a) mitigate existing problems and (b) prevent future ones.
As part of its ongoing commitment to the community, the Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority (LNAA) is conducting an update to its Aircraft Noise Compatibility Study. This study, funded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and regulated under Chapter 14, Part 150 of the Code of Federal Regulations, will model and evaluate aircraft noise in the vicinity of the Lehigh Valley International Airport (LVIA). It will also identify ways to reduce aircraft noise that is considered to incompatible under Federal guidelines. The last update to the Airport’s Noise Compatibility Study occurred in 2004.
Overview
The Part 150 Study Update began in Spring 2014. As of today, data collection is underway, to be followed by an analysis of existing and future noise conditions, noise monitoring, development of alternatives, and study recommendations. The study is being conducted by a consultant, Wyle Laboratories, Inc., hired by LNAA. The study is expected to be completed by August 2015.
The Part 150 Study Update will culminate with two key components: Noise Exposure Maps (NEMs) and a Noise Compatibility Program (NCP). The NEMs will show where noise occurs, today and a five year forecast. The NCP will consist of updated measures proposed to reduce noise exposure in the community.
Key Goals of the LVIA Part 150 Study Update
- Model existing aircraft operations to determine existing noise conditions around LVIA;
- Predict future noise conditions;
- Develop a federally-approved plan to reduce incompatible noise exposure from aircraft;
- Seek federal funding to implement the plan.
Advisory Committees
Although the LNAA is ultimately responsible for the final contents and recommendations of the study, two advisory committees have been formed to help guide the LVIA Part 150 Study Update. These committees will provide input on the study throughout its duration.
Technical Advisory Committee
The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) includes Lehigh Valley International Airport staff, representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration such as Air Traffic Control staff, the Borough of Catasauqua, Whitehall Township, Hanover-Northampton and airport tenants. The role of the TAC is to:
- Assist Wyle with technical expertise,
- Provide oversight and technical review of Wyle work, and
- Act as a ‘sounding board’ for the development and analysis of various noise abatement and land use management alternatives.
The TAC would meet regularly throughout the study process, and would be charged with assisting in the distribution of project information to the larger public.
Community Advisory Committee
The Community Advisory Committee (CAC) is comprised of residents who primarily live near the airport. CAC representatives provide community perspectives on aircraft noise issues around the airport, share experiences and information about the airport, and provide feedback and suggestions based on individual and collective concerns of surrounding communities. The CAC would meet regularly throughout the study process, and would be charged with assisting in the distribution of project information to the larger public. Responsibilities include:
- Act as a vehicle for communications about the study to stakeholder constituents,
- Provide oversight and feedback of Wyle work,
- Act as a ‘sounding board’ for the development and analysis of various noise abatement and land use management alternatives..
Both the TAC and the CAC will meet throughout course of the study to receive information and share their input with Wyle and LVIA.
The public is encouraged to get involved in the study. LVIA is providing several ways for the public to get involved and offer comments.
Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority Noise Exposure Map Acceptance Public Announcement
Pursuant to Section 107(a) & (b) [Title 49, United States Code, Section 47506] of the Airport Safety and Noise Abatement Act of 1979, as amended, notice is hereby given that on November 28, 2016, the Federal Aviation Administration has completed its evaluation of, and has formally accepted the Noise Exposure Maps for Lehigh Valley International Airport, located in Allentown, Pennsylvania that were prepared pursuant to Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 150 (14 CFR Part 150). These maps and supporting documentation are available for public review at the offices of Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority, 3311 Airport Road, Allentown, PA 18109; Monday-Friday from 8:00am – 4:00pm or by clicking the link below.
Final Approved Documents
Project History / Status
1991 – Initial Study
Approval for sound insulation of incompatible residences within the 65 DNL
Acquisition of homes within the 75 DNL
Installation of permanent noise monitoring system
2004 – Study Update
Continuation of sound insulation for homes within 65 DNL
Continuation of noise measurement system
2015 – Study Update
Assess the existing noise conditions
Determine future noise condition
Develop a plan to reduce aircraft noise impact
Obtain Federal funding to implement the plan
