The national air transportation exists today primarily through Federal legislation and every facet is governed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. The FAA exercises control of aircraft noise through noise emission standards, air traffic control, pilot and flight regulations and noise compatibility studies.  More information is available on the FAA website.

On November 2, 2017, the FAA announced it is seeking public comment on its intent to establish the “FAA Noise Portal,” which is an online aircraft noise complaint and inquiry system that will allow the agency to more effectively address noise complaints and inquiries. The public has until Jan. 2, 2018, to submit comments on the proposed portal. Currently, the FAA receives noise complaints/inquiries in several different formats sent to many different individuals in the agency. The portal will include required and optional fields for the public to complete. The information submitted will be automatically sent to the FAA Regional Administrator’s Office or Noise Ombudsman, who then will direct it to the appropriate FAA office for response to the complaint. For additional information, contact Barbara Hall or by phone at 940-594-5913.

State regulation of aircraft in flight is preempted by federal law, however, state regulations do affect disclosure of aircraft flight paths and noise. Arizona Revised Statute 28-8486 Public Airport Disclosure requires the recording of public airport disclosure maps. The maps provide information to prospective homebuyers as well as current homeowners. Additionally, the Arizona Department of Transportation regulates other aspects of aviation, but not aircraft in flight.

The city of Scottsdale is responsible for promoting noise abatement procedures and ensuring compatible land development through zoning and stipulations within the Airport Influence Area. Airports have no authority to govern aircraft operators while in the air, but are the local point of contact for noise complaints.

Aircraft manufacturers are charged with building aircraft that are safe and comply with Federal noise regulations. Newer engines are quieter and more efficient, and significant debate exists about the issue of requiring retrofitting of older jet aircraft with new, quieter engines.

Aircraft operators are responsible for operating their aircraft safely, while in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations governing flight and Air Traffic Control instructions. The national and local pilot associations actively encourage their members to exercise noise abatement procedures whenever possible.