Noise Monitoring Center
The Aircraft Noise Monitoring Center was established to monitor the aircraft noise impacts on the surrounding communities. Review of Noise Monitoring System Data identifies aircraft arrival and departures. The center maintains a database that records both aircraft operations and noise inquiries. This information is forwarded to the Airport Noise Advisory Committee (ANAC), Airport Commission, and the San Jose City Council in the form of a Monthly Noise Report (MNR).
Normal and Reverse Traffic Flow
Aircraft are required to take off and land into the wind. There are two traffic flow directions for San Jose International Airport. On an annual basis, approximately 85% of operations occur in a northernly direction (view Northflow pattern). The remaining 15% of operations occur in a southernly direction (view Southflow pattern). The Southern Reverse Traffic Flow generally occurs during the course of a weather system moving into or passing through the South Bay Area. During the Reverse Traffic Flow, areas to the south of the Airport will experience higher sound levels from takeoffs than the normal levels heard from landing aircraft.
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. |
