Hurricane City Airport revises noise abatement policy to enhance safety measures

The Hurricane City Airport Board convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss significant revisions to the airport's noise abatement policy, emphasizing safety and community impact. A key proposal involves a new flight pattern aimed at reducing noise over residential areas, particularly during helicopter operations. The board highlighted that while the recommended pattern is voluntary, it is designed to enhance safety and minimize disturbances for local residents.

The proposed changes include a detailed diagram illustrating the new flight path, which suggests that helicopters should avoid flying over neighborhoods when making base turns. This adjustment is particularly relevant for training flights, where safety and noise reduction are paramount. The board noted that fixed-wing aircraft typically follow a wider pattern, which is less likely to affect residential noise levels.

Another critical aspect of the discussion was the recommendation to limit nighttime landings due to the absence of airport lighting. The board proposed that no landings occur between civil twilight hours, which could enhance safety for both pilots and residents. This measure aims to prevent potential disturbances during late-night hours while still allowing for emergency landings when necessary.

Board members expressed general support for the revisions, acknowledging that most pilots are likely to comply with the new guidelines. However, they recognized that a small number of individuals may resist these changes, particularly regarding nighttime operations. The board plans to present these recommendations to the city council for approval, ensuring that the updated noise abatement policy aligns with existing regulations.

As the board moves forward, they aim to balance the needs of pilots with the concerns of the community, reinforcing their commitment to safety and noise reduction at Hurricane City Airport.