While we can’t completely eliminate aircraft noise at our three airports, we collaborate closely with our airlines, aircraft operators, FAA authorities, and local communities to minimize the noise impact.
Aircraft noise in a nutshell
- The FAA and Air Traffic Control dictate flight paths.
- Airline pilots follow FAA guidelines, and take off and land based on wind direction and as directed by air traffic controllers in towers.
- The Columbus Regional Airport Authority monitors noise daily and maintains open lines of communication with our airline partners, the FAA, Air Traffic Control, and local communities.
Noise comments
We monitor noise 24/7, and welcome comments from our local community. View the latest Annual Report.
Noise program
Our overall noise program focuses on noise abatement and land-use management. 20 noise-related grants have been provided by the FAA to our airports and surrounding communities. With past FAA funding, we installed sound insulation treatments for nearly 800 homeowners within certain boundaries of the John Glenn International noise contours. The insulation program has addressed all eligible homes and the program is now closed.
Mapping
Noise Exposure Maps (NEMs) are the official, FAA-approved noise contours defined for CMH, LCK, and TZR airports, depicting existing and five-year future conditions.
Monitoring
Columbus Regional Airport Authority conducts periodic noise studies, known as Part 150 Noise Compatibility Program Study, in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) set forth by the FAA.
A new federal Part 150 noise study is in process at CMH. Visit the project website to learn more.
Measuring
Track flight activity in and out of CMH, LCK, and TZR on the WebTrak system, which tracks data for current and historical flights.
FAQs
Have the flight paths changed recently?
The flight paths have not shifted or altered since 2013.
What is aircraft noise?
Aircraft noise is a product of both the noise generated by the thrust of the engine as well as the structure of the aircraft. As an aircraft is traveling through the sky, it is displacing air around the fuselage, engines, landing gear, wings, and control surfaces. This displacement creates vibrations, or sound. Airlines have been in the process of modernizing their fleets by phasing out older, noisier aircraft for newer, quieter, and more efficient aircraft.
Is there a way for me to view aircraft flight paths around my residence?
The WebTrak system is a good tool to use. Please note that real time data is delayed by 21 minutes to maintain aviation security.
Are aircraft allowed to operate at night?
Yes. CMH: As a public-use airport, it is open 24/7/365. Between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., the north runway is deemed noise sensitive since it is closer to residential areas. We prefer to use our south runway for overnight hours.
LCK: Open 24/7/365. No noise sensitive hours.
TZR: Open 24/7/365. No noise sensitive hours, however Air Traffic Control is open between 7:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
Why don’t the aircraft flying out of CMH depart in the same direction all the time?
Planes need to take off and land into the wind, so the direction of air traffic flow is dependent on the wind that day.
Who controls where the aircraft fly?
The FAA is responsible for controlling aircraft. Columbus Regional Airport Authority may coordinate with the FAA regarding noise abatement procedures; however, only the FAA can approve and implement those changes.
