H.R. 897: Aviation-Impacted Communities Act

This bill, known as the Aviation-Impacted Communities Act, aims to address the noise and environmental impacts experienced by communities located near airports, especially those not currently benefiting from existing noise mitigation programs. The main components of the bill are outlined below:

Eligibility for Noise Mitigation Funding

The bill allows aviation-impacted communities that do not meet the 65 Day-Night Average Sound Level (DNL) threshold, as determined by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), to access funds under the Airport Improvement Program for noise mitigation. It also facilitates the formation of community boards to engage with airport authorities about local noise issues.

Study by the National Academy of Sciences

The FAA is required to contract the National Academy of Sciences for a comprehensive study focused on the aviation impacts in and around large hub airports. This study will:

• Compile existing research on aviation impacts.
• Examine communities located outside the 65 DNL contour.
• Gather data from various sources, including community testimonials, airport operations, and noise monitoring stations.
• Identify the effects of aircraft operations on health and the environment, particularly in areas with unique geographic features.
• Provide recommendations for alleviating identified issues.

Framework and Diagnostic Tool

Based on the study's findings, a framework and diagnostic tool will be developed to help assess aviation impacts on communities. This will involve:

• Community assessments regarding flight operations and noise disturbance.
• Collaboration with community input and feedback.

Designating Aviation-Impacted Communities

Communities impacted by aviation noise can request designation with the FAA, which must acknowledge these requests publicly. The bill requires outreach to inform local officials about the opportunity to seek this designation.

Establishment of Community Boards

Designated communities will be encouraged to form boards comprised of various stakeholders, including local officials, airport operators, and residents. These boards will:

• Meet to discuss community concerns related to aviation.
• Draft community reports detailing their observations and recommendations.
• Request evaluation studies or assessments from the FAA.

Action Plans and Community Assessments

After conducting community assessments, the FAA is mandated to create an action plan within six months. This plan will aim to address the concerns presented in community reports and include:

• Long-term strategies for reducing noise and environmental impacts.
• Potential changes in flight operations and procedures based on community feedback.

Additionally, the bill establishes an appeals process for communities to contest the FAA’s decisions regarding mitigation efforts, using an independent panel of experts.

Noise Mitigation Funding

The bill authorizes the FAA to distribute grants for noise mitigation efforts within designated communities. Eligible uses of this funding may include:

• Sound insulation for residences and other facilities.
• Construction of noise barriers.
• Other strategies as identified in the community assessments.

Funding Authorization

The bill proposes an overall budget of $750 million from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund for implementing these initiatives over ten years, along with provisions for ongoing funding as needed after this period.

Definitions

The bill defines critical terms, clarifying what constitutes an aviation-impacted community and outlines the roles of the Administrator of the FAA and the criteria for aircraft operations.

Relevant Companies

• BA (Boeing Co.): Boeing, a major aircraft manufacturer, may be impacted through changes in operational guidelines or procedures due to increased regulatory scrutiny on noise emissions and environmental impacts stemming from airports.
• AAL (American Airlines Group, Inc.): As a major airline, American Airlines may face implications regarding flight operations and routes that could be altered based on community needs and noise mitigation standards.
• UAL (United Airlines Holdings, Inc.): Similar to American Airlines, United may be affected by new regulations or required adjustments to their flight patterns to reduce noise impacts on designated communities.