Decision Expected By November 1st

As is so often the culprit, noise has been an issue for the communities surrounding Bob Hope Airport in the San Fernando valley, including Burbank. Late last week, the FAA notified the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority that its application for a curfew was essentially complete, and that started the clock on a 6 month review process. While the airport authority has some additional paperwork to file, a mandatory curfew could be in effect by the November 1st.

According to the San Fernando Valley Business Journal, the study was begun 9 years ago to meet requirements set out by the FAA to show that a curfew is reasonable and nonarbitrary; does not create an undue burden on interstate commerce or the national aviation system; does not conflict with federal law; makes efficient use of navigable airspace; and allowed for adequate opportunity for public comment.

A report in The Burbank Leader said a study on the proposed curfew found that the airport authority and the FAA would save some $59 million over 10 years if it were implemented.  The bulk of the savings would come from not having to insulate houses affected by the noise. That would outweigh the $48 million in costs to airlines, passengers, general aviation, and others by restricting airline activity between 10 p.m. and 6:59 a.m. Some exceptions, including emergencies and medical flight aircraft would be allowed.

FBO's report that at least 24 aircraft owners say they would relocate their airplanes to other airports if the curfew is imposed, but that might not entirely solve the problem. The Business Journal notes that Los Angeles World Airports, the owner and operator of Van Nuys, is looking at its own ban on certain jet aircraft at the Valley airfield to reduce the noise impacts on surrounding residential neighborhoods.

FMI: http://www.burbankairport.com/