FAA Maps Out Airport Noise: Planes Get Loud, Bureaucrats Get Busy
Published Date: 4/3/2026
Notice
Summary
The FAA has officially approved the noise exposure map for Centennial Airport in Englewood, Colorado, showing current and future noise levels through 2030. This means local residents, businesses, and the airport can better understand and plan for noise impacts. The approval took effect on April 1, 2026, paving the way for noise reduction plans that could improve community comfort without extra costs right now.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Enables Submission of Noise Compatibility Program
Because the NEM was found compliant, the airport operator may submit a noise compatibility program to the FAA for approval that describes measures to reduce existing non-compatible uses and prevent new ones. The NEM acceptance is a prerequisite step before such a program can be considered by the FAA.
FAA Accepts Centennial Airport Noise Map
The FAA found the Centennial Airport Noise Exposure Map (NEM) compliant, effective April 1, 2026. The submitted materials include a 2025 Existing Condition NEM and a 2030 Future Condition NEM that describe current and forecast aircraft noise around the airport.
No Promise to Approve or Fund Mitigation
The FAA's acceptance of the NEM does not mean the FAA approves the airport's data or plans, nor does it commit to approve or to fund any noise compatibility program or its implementation. Local stakeholders should not assume FAA funding or automatic approval of mitigation measures.
Local Authorities Responsible for Property Overlays
The FAA said it does not determine which specific properties fall inside noise contours; the airport operator and local planning authorities are responsible for overlaying noise contours onto property maps and making land-use decisions. Local governments keep the responsibility for land use and planning under 14 CFR part 150.
NEM Documents Include 2025 and 2030 Graphics
The accepted documentation includes 2025 Existing Condition NEM graphics and 2030 Future Condition NEM graphics plus required narrative, graphic, or tabular data under 14 CFR 150.101 and 49 U.S.C. 47503 and 47506. These materials describe estimated operations and forecast effects through 2030.
Where to Inspect the NEM Materials
Copies of the NEM, supporting documentation, and the FAA's evaluation are available for examination at the FAA Denver Airports District Office (26805 E 68th Ave., Suite 224, Denver, CO 80249) and at Centennial Airport (76565 S Peoria St., Englewood, CO).
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