The recent article regarding bogus noise complaints at Paine Field was lacking coverage of the noise problem itself (“Fake noise complaints inundate Everett’s Paine Field airport,” The Herald, Oct. 29) I live down the hill from Paine Field and a little Northeast of the usual flight path for all the aircraft from the airport. I have lived here since early 1990.
Prior to commercial aircraft operating out of Paine Field, the predominant aircraft were from Boeing. The 787s and 777s are very quiet, much quieter than the commercial aircraft that Alaska and United use. Although the commercial aircraft are much smaller, they are annoying with the amount of noise they produce.
The commercial planes mostly adhere to the flight path that all of the aircraft, including Boeing and private craft use. The planes do not turn until they are over the sound. This keeps the noise down. Unfortunately, some of the commercial planes do no follow this practice. There is increased noise when the planes begin turning northeast and accelerate before they are over the sound.
The operating time for the commercial aircraft service could be better. I have been awoken on multiple occasions by the early flights that occur about 6 a.m.
There are three points that the commercial airlines, Snohomish County and Paine Field could address to keep noise down in the neighborhoods that are the most affected. First, the aircraft need to be updated or modified to produce less noise. They should not be noisier than the larger 787s and 777s. Second, the commercial aircraft need to adhere to the flight path so they are not over the houses to the northeast. Turns should begin once they are over the sound. Finally, the arriving and departure times should be tailored to have quiet periods when most people are asleep.
Bill Dickinson
Everett
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
