AIRPORT PLANNING MANUAL 6.2. AIRPORT AND COMMUNITY NOISE Aircraft noise is a major concern for the airport and community planner. The airport is a basic element in the community’s transportation system and, thus, is vital to its growth. However, the airport must also be a good neighbor, and this can only be accomplished with proper planning. Since aircraft noise extends beyond the boundaries of the airport, it is vital to consider the noise impact on the surrounding communities. Many means have been devised to provide the planner with a tool to estimate the impact of airport operations. Too often they oversimplify noise to the point where the results become erroneous. Noise is not a simple matter; therefore, there are no simple answers. The cumulative noise contour is an effective tool. However, care must be exercised to ensure that the contours, used correctly, estimate the noise resulting from aircraft operations conducted at an airport. The size and shape of the single-event contours, which are inputs into the cumulative noise contours, are dependent upon numerous factors. They include operational factors (aircraft weight, engine power setting, airport altitude), atmospheric conditions (wind, temperature, relative humidity, surface condition), and terrain. 6.2.1. External Certification Noise Levels Theaircraft comply with the Stage 3 / Chapter 3 noise limits set forth in 14 CFR Part 36, ICAOAnnex 16, Volume 1, Chapter 3, Amendment 7 and CTA RBHA 36. 6.2.2. RampNoise Levels The ramp noise will not exceed 80 dBA (maximum) and 77 dBA (average) on the rectangular perimeter of 20 m (65 ft 7 in) from the aircraft centerline, nose and tail, 90 dBA on the service positions and 80 dBA on the passenger entrance positions resulting from operation of the APU (if fitted), ECS, equipment cooling fans and vent fans, in any combination. EFFECTIVITY: ALL Section 6 Page 6-8 Dec18/06 w-apm1346