November 2021 MCQSC Update: FAA Reviewing DCA Working Group Proposal

Greetings to all!  Although the frequency of flights over our homes is approaching pre-pandemic levels again, we have news that may help to improve your spirits.

Status of Recommendation #22 re. DCA Approach Procedures

The Montgomery County and Arlington County aviation consultant, Jim Allerdice of ABCX2, has confirmed that the FAA is reviewing DCA Community Working Group Recommendation #22.  As you may recall from our July MCQSC update (attached), Recommendation #22 is expected to result in noise mitigation for our communities.

 Jim reports that the FAA’s initial impression of Recommendation #22 is favorable.  Also very encouraging is that Jim has been given permission to participate in the FAA procedure design process for these procedure changes.  Historically, representatives of aviation-impacted communities have not been allowed to participate even though communities are directly impacted by flight procedures and should have a seat at the table.  Our work here at DCA may pave the way for more meaningful community participation on a national level.

The expected publication date for new approach procedures to DCA Runway 19 is unknown. Flight procedures tagged as safety concerns take priority, and we hear that the FAA is backed up around the country. We will share information on timing as soon as we receive it, but realistically the new approach procedures in Recommendation #22, if approved, are unlikely to be published before the end of 2022 or sometime in 2023.

Another very positive development is that Members of Congress from Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia sent a letter to the FAA in support of Recommendation #22 (attached).  Our Maryland delegation took the lead on this letter. We are extremely grateful to Senator Van Hollen, Congressman Raskin, and their outstanding staff for their unwavering support of MCQSC's efforts to mitigate airplane noise!

Mark your calendars!  ABCx2 will host a third community meeting for the Montgomery County/Arlington County Joint Aircraft Noise Mitigation Study.  The meeting will be held virtually on Monday, December 13 from 6:30pm - 8:00pm.  The study team will provide a status update and take questions and comments from community members.  We will share the virtual link when it is available.