VNY Airport Noise Restrictions

Noise Restrictions

Van Nuys Runway

Below is a summary of Van Nuys Airport's Noise Abatement, Curfew Ordinance and Voluntary Noise Abatement programs.

Click here for Noise Abatement and Curfew Regulations

Click here for Preferred Helicopter Routes

Click here for Quieter Nights Program Best Practices



Quieter Nights Program 2020

The Quieter Nights Program encourages jet aircraft operators to avoid flights at VNY between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. whenever possible, unless the aircraft are involved in military, law enforcement, emergency, fire or air ambulance/life flight operations.



Partial Curfew

Van Nuys Airport is regulated by a Noise Abatement and Curfew Ordinance enacted by the Los Angeles City Council in 1981 and amended in November 1997.  The ordinance contains a partial curfew restricting Stage 2 aircraft from departing during late night hours.

  • Per Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular 36-3, prohibits Stage 2 aircraft from departing between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. (medical emergency and military flights are exempt). Stage 3 aircraft (newer or modified jet-engine aircraft that produce less noise) are not affected by the curfew until 11 p.m.
  • No restrictions on landings or helicopters.
  • Prohibits touch and go operations between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Commitment

Van Nuys Airport has a Quiet Jet Departure Program to reduce noise in the local community. An important element of the program is a commitment in which jet operators agree to use quiet departure procedures not to exceed target decibel levels on takeoff.

  • Pilots will fly aircraft using noise abatement techniques as outlined in manufacturers' operating manuals or National Business Aircraft Association Noise Abatement Program.
  • Pilots will work to research complaints from local residents regarding individual flights and to encourage participation by other jet operators.
Departure Techniques

In addition to those listed in the commitment section, pilots are requested to observe the following procedures on departure:

  • Runway 16R is the preferred runway for all jet aircraft.
  • The full length of Runway 16R/34L will be used for all jet departures.
  • Runways 16R/16L - Climb straight out over flood basin before starting turn unless instructed by air traffic control.
  • Runways 34R/34L - Climb to an altitude of 1,800 feet before starting turn unless instructed by air traffic control.
  • Jet repetitive operations, pattern flying/training are not permitted.

For more information, call (818) 442-6506. 

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