Concerned that the new runway configuration at Santa Monica Municipal Airport (SMO) in California might lead to increased noise violations, NBAA is asking operators to report any related noise warnings or citations to the association. SMO temporarily closed to traffic this month while Santa Monica completed the shortening of Runway 3/21 from 5,000 feet to 3,500 feet.
The airport, which has a noise-monitoring program grandfathered under the 1990 Airport Noise and Capacity Act (ANCA), had noise monitors located about 1,500 feet from the departure end of the 5,000-foot runway, providing 6,500 feet from the start of the takeoff roll.
With the shortening, though, the noise monitors are 735 feet closer to the beginning of the aircraft takeoff roll at either end, meaning departing aircraft likely will be lower when they fly over the monitor. This increases operators' risk of violating the city’s 95-decibel limit. NBAA noted that the city issues initial fines of $2,000 that potentially increase up to “suspension or exclusion.”
The association warned the city that maintaining the monitors at the same locations amounts to a de facto reduction in the noise limit and would represent a violation of the ANCA thresholds. NBAA has asked the FAA to ensure that the city makes appropriate adjustments to remain in compliance with ANCA. At the same time, the association encouraged operators that receive warnings or violations to alert Alex Gertsen, NBAA's director of airports and ground infrastructure, at (202) 737-4477 or by email.
NBAA also advised that arrival procedures are changing, with a VOR-A approach the only instrument approach available temporarily. New RNAV approaches will be published on February 1.