Data Catalog

Dataset: Airport Noise Exposure

Description: The Airport Noise Exposure dataset includes airport noise contours representing equal day/night noise levels (DNL) measured in decibels for lands surrounding airports in the United States. Noise studies are mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA defines significant noise levels as areas within 65 DNL or higher. Factors contributing to changes in noise contours include weather, aircraft type, runway configuration, and frequency of use.

Collection Methodology: Noise contour data was collected from individual airports and counties for all small, medium, and large hub-type airports. This reflects all US airports with over 10,000 passengers per year. Sound levels are computed by aviation departments and consultants via the Integrated Noise Model (INM), a software program designed to evaluate potential noise impacts near airports with measures such as noise exposure, max level, time-based noise contours and levels at pre-selected locations. For airports participating in the FAA Noise Compatibility Program, updates to noise exposure maps are required when there is substantial increase in aircraft noise levels but does not require airports to revise their maps when there is a decrease in aircraft noise.

General Business Terms: This dataset is available on a usage basis. Please inquire for additional information.

Attribution Policy: Developers must include attribution link and text as follows: Map data © 2010 Urban Mapping Inc and/or other parties when developing applications.

US Airports (airport_noise.us_arpt_ns): The Airport Noise Exposure dataset includes airport noise contours representing equal day/night noise levels (DNL) measured in decibels for lands surrounding 133 airports in the United States. Noise studies are mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA defines significant noise levels as areas within 65 DNL or higher. Factors contributing to changes in noise contours include weather, aircraft type, runway configuration, and frequency of use.; Details...