Following are some general guidelines and techniques to minimize the noise impact produced by aircraft operating near the ground.

  • 1

    The OAK Noise Management Program encourages all corporate pilots to depart from Runway 30.

  • 2
    If practical, avoid noise-sensitive areas such as residential areas, open-air assemblies (e.g., sporting events and concerts), and national park areas.
  • 3
    Consider using a reduced power setting if flight must be low due to cloud cover or overlying controlled airspace or when approaching the airport of destination. Propellers generate more noise than engines; flying with the lowest practical rpm setting the aircraft’s noise level substantially.
  • 4
    Perform stalls, spins, and other practice maneuvers over uninhabited terrain.
  • 5
    Many airports have established specific noise abatement procedures. Familiarize yourself and comply with these procedures.
  • 6
    To contain aircraft noise within airport boundaries, avoid performing engine runups at the ends of runways near housing developments.
  • 7
    Gain altitude as quickly as possible upon takeoff without compromising safety. Begin takeoffs at the start of a runway, not at an intersection.
  • 8
    Retract the landing gear either as soon as a landing straight ahead on the runway can no longer be accomplished or as soon as the aircraft achieves a positive rate of climb. If practical, maintain best-angle-of-climb airspeed until reaching 50 feet or an altitude that provides clearance from terrain or obstacles, then accelerate to best-rate-of-climb airspeed. If consistent with safety, make the first power reduction at 500 feet.
  • 9
    Fly a tight landing pattern to keep noise as close to the airport as possible. Practice descent to the runway at low power settings and with as few power changes as possible.
  • 10
    If a PAPI or other visual approach guidance system is available, use it. These devices will indicate a safe glidepath and allow a smooth, quiet descent to the runway.
  • 11
    If possible, do not adjust the propeller control for flat pitch on the downwind leg; instead, wait until short final. This practice not only provides a quieter approach, but also reduces stress on the engine and propeller governor.
  • 12
    Avoid low-level, high-power approaches, which not only create high noise impacts, but also limit options in the event of engine failure.
  • 13
    Flying between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. should be avoided whenever possible. (Most aircraft noise complaints are registered by residents whose sleep has been disturbed by noisy, low-flying aircraft.)
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Note: These recommendations are general in nature; some may not be advisable for every aircraft in every situation. No noise reduction procedure should be allowed to compromise safety.