SJC Curfew Information
In October 2003, Mineta San José International Airport (SJC), with the approval of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), revised the curfew portion of its noise control program from a weight-based curfew to a noise-based curfew. The revised noise control program also included enforcement provisions where operators are fined $2,500 for every curfew intrusion.
Noise-Based Curfew
FAR 36 Stage II aircraft may not operate between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
FAR 36 Stage III aircraft at or below 89.0 EPNdB per FAR AC 36-1H average of takeoff/sideline/approach noise levels, or any other “grandfathered” Stage 3 Jet Aircraft can operate between the hours of 11:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m.
Aircraft Noise Data
Jet Engine Testing
Aircraft are not prohibited from jet engine testing. For mechanical maintenance purposes, aircraft may perform low- to high-power engine testing. Jet engine testing allows maintenance staff to inspect for safe engine operation. Testing can only take place at designated airport areas to minimize engine sound levels directed towards the surrounding communities. Normally prohibited during the Time of Day Restriction hours, high power jet engine testing can be authorized after 4:30 a.m. provided the aircraft has a scheduled departure time after 6:30 a.m.
Enforcement Provisions
- Administrative Citation Fines
- $2,500 per occurrence
- Fines Appealable to Airport Commission
Contact Information
For information regarding the Airport Noise Control Program, please contact the Airport Noise Monitoring Center during business hours at (408) 501-0956 or Airport Operations at (408) 277-5378.
Exemptions From Curfew Hour Restrictions
- Events Beyond Operator Control:
- Weather
- Mechanical Problems
- Air Traffic Control
- Security Delays
- Emergency Operations
- Government Operated Aircraft