SANAC Issue Paper #4

ISSUE: Limit the number of stage II aircraft using the airport

BACKGROUND: At the May 12, 1998 SANAC meeting this issue was one of thirty-eight issues brought forward as a noise reduction idea by members of the public.

ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION: The federal government has subdivided large transport aircraft (75,000 lbs. gross weight) into three basic divisions based on the amount of noise they generate.

Stage I aircraft - are basically military, high performance aircraft and those with old technology.  Only a few of the commercial variations of stage I aircraft are still in service in this country.

Stage II aircraft - are mostly the early versions of common air carriers used across the country today.  Early production runs of B-727 and B-737 form the majority of this stage.  Also included in this category are DC-8 and many older cargo aircraft.  New technology can be installed on these aircraft to reduce the amount of noise generated.  It involves installation of engine hush kits and/or winglets and new flap settings to allow for similar aircraft performance with less power and therefore less noise.

Stage III aircraft - are the new generation of transport aircraft including B-757, B-767, A-330 200 and others.  These aircraft represent the most advanced engine and airframe technology incorporating high bypass turbine engines and extremely aerodynamic airframe contours for smooth airflow.

CONCLUSION: The federal government has established rules on use of the above types of aircraft.  The entire fleet of air carrier transport aircraft are to be Stage III compliant by January 1, 2000.  No transport aircraft over 75,000 lbs. of gross weight will be allowed to fly in the United States without conforming to the federal government rules.

RECOMMENDATION: Ensure all air carriers using this airport comply with the federal rules.

SUB-COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Airport Authority

DATE PREPARED: November 12, 1999