The Federal Aviation Association (FAA) has been looking into ineffective flight paths around the McCarran International Airport in the Las Vegas area. Although the current routes have existed for decades, the FAA has deemed the paths inefficient. During both takeoff and landing, airplanes along these paths must coast for very long times before changing altitude. It’s almost as if the planes are embarking on a stairway with extremely long stairs. The new routes would allow for a much smoother departure or landing in or out of the McCarran International Airport, Henderson Executive Airport, and the Nellis Air Force Base.
The takeoff and landing routes would be satellite based, technologically advanced and would span these three airports. Not only will the new satellite based routes cause less noise, but it will also create more precise routes and make more accurate tracking of aircraft. Replacing the old and outdated beacon based navigation system seems to be capable of bringing a lot of good – not only to residents of Henderson but also passengers who fly in or out of the Las Vegas area.
What Does This Mean for Henderson?
The flight paths being discussed by the FAA run directly across Henderson, and currently cause a lot of aggravating airplane noise for its residents. Bob Sims is one of Henderson’s residents who is concerned with the noise. He is one of the nearly 20 community members who attended a meeting on the issue on Tuesday at the Henderson Convention Center. Sims reports that he doesn’t necessarily want the actual flight paths to change, but he is ready for the noise to be lessoned. He does seem to be optimistic of the changes. “If it’s changed to what the FAA is saying, then it might end up being better for us.” Sims stated to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. (https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/henderson-might-hear-less-airport-noise-under-new-faa-system/). Hopefully for all of us in the Henderson area, we are hoping that Sims and the FAA are right and we’ll all have to listen to less annoying airport noises!
When Will the Changes Occur?
It is estimated that it will take about another year for the preliminary drafts to be completed, and for them to be discussed during another round of public meetings in the community. After the meetings, environmental assessments will then need to be completed, as FAA spokesperson Ian Gregor explains. If the new paths do get approved, the new flight paths could begin as early as December 2019.
What Does Airport Noise Actually Do?
Airport noise can be extremely annoying for community members who live along flight paths, especially near busy airports such as those in Las Vegas. This type of noise has also been linked to increased stress and anxiety, and even a decreased quality of life.
Although obnoxious, airport noise does not necessarily cause hearing loss for community members, although the risk is very real for airport and airline employees and even passengers. Hearing loss is the number one most commonly reported occupational injury in the United States and airline personnel are amongst the most effected. If you work at the airport, it is imperative to ensure that you use hearing protection, especially during takeoff and landing. If you do not have adequate hearing protection for use at work, reach out to your manager. It is legally mandated that your employer provide not only hearing protection, but also training for their employees on the dangers of noise induced hearing loss. Even as a passenger, using hearing protection during takeoff and landing is a smart move.
How Desert Valley Audiology Can Help
At Desert Valley Audiology, we are proud to be industry leaders in hearing care. Whether you live near airport noise or not, it is important to take care of your hearing health. If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing, such as having difficulty understanding conversations in large groups or on the phone, can hear but simply not understand, always feel like the volume on the TV is too low, or have noticed yourself attending less social events, reach out to our friendly team today. Schedule your hearing assessment with our friendly team at Desert Valley Audiology – we look forward to hearing from you!